Ministry welcomes Gambling Helpline partnership

Ministry welcomes Gambling Helpline partnership

The Ministry of Health is pleased to be able to continue its relationship with the Gambling Helpline, following the agreement of a new contract for service provision running until 30 June 2010.

The Gambling Helpline has ten years' experience in providing a Gambling Helpline service for New Zealand.

"We're delighted to have reached an agreement which will allow for an ongoing provision of service for those experiencing harm as a result of their own or other people's gambling," said the Ministry's Group Manager of the Minimising Harm Group, Barbara Phillips.

"The Helpline supports around 200 new callers each month and is developing a 24 hour, seven days a week service. We're looking forward to assisting them in providing the best possible service for those affected by problem gambling."

The first day of the new contract is 1 November 2008, which will allow a seamless transition from the old agreement which terminates on 31 October. Those seeking assistance from the Helpline will not notice any difference in the services provided.

ENDS