Gambling Support BC Program

The B.C. Government provides British Columbians with free information and resources to support informed choices and healthy behaviours with respect to gambling participation. Free treatment and support services are also available for anyone struggling with their own or a loved one’s gambling.

The program offers:

• A 24-hour, toll-free Gambling Support Line: 1-888-795-6111
• Free community-based counseling services through contracted agencies and qualified counselors
• www.gamblingsupportbc.ca, a web site that provides information on gambling and gambling addiction (including the odds of winning and myths about normal gambling behaviour)
• Province-wide education and awareness services
• Brochures, help-line stickers and posters promoting responsible gambling and the Gambling Support BC Program - available at casinos, commercial bingo halls and lottery retail outlets
• Advertising and marketing standards for the gambling industry
• Research
• Education and training in problem gambling issues to addiction counsellors and allied professionals throughout the province

Other Related Initiatives

• Anyone under the age of 19 is prohibited from participating in commercial gaming activities
• The number of casinos and other gaming facilities are limited in the province
• Casinos, community gaming centres, bingo halls and PlayNow.com are required to provide a free, voluntary self-exclusion program under which a person may ask to be barred from such gaming facilities for a specified period
• In every casino in British Columbia, a GameSense Advisor is available to provide information regarding gambling myths, responsible play strategies and the resources available to those experiencing a gambling problem