Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2019
This week Vikings Group attended the ACT Government’s Gambling Harm Awareness conference, as part of Gambling Harm Awareness Week. The week is designed to encourage community discussions about gambling harm and responsible gambling practices.
A key theme of the conference was the importance of responsible gambling practices.
Responsible gambling practices are at the forefront of all we do, that is why we developed our harm minimisation program ‘Play within your Limits’ which received the best gambling initiative in a Canberra club at the Clubs ACT Awards on Monday night.
’Play within your Limits’ aims to address problem gambling issues through the implementation of numerous strategies and procedures in our Clubs, it also looks at strategies to support individuals who may be struggling with problem gambling and give them the tools to help overcome the problem.
In 2018, as part of the ‘Play within your Limits’ program, Vikings Group launched a dedicated support room at Erindale Vikings, a room where members can access support via Lifeline services and resources in a safe and secure environment. This room was a first of its kind for Clubs in Australia.
Equally important to the success of the program, and the dedicated support room, is the training that staff undertake to provide the appropriate level of support to members. This training includes courses on identifying early warning signs, being an accidental counsellor, mental health awareness and dealing with people in difficult situations.
Vikings Clubs are enjoyed by all for a range of reasons and we acknowledge that while most members of the community enjoy gambling within their means, some are more at risk of becoming problem gamblers. We understand our role is ongoing in assisting individuals to overcome mental health and wellbeing issues that may lead to gambling harm and we will continue to be part of the ongoing solution.
If you or a loved one need to seek help for problem gambling start a conversation today, call the ACT Gambling Counselling & Support Service – 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/