Gambling Helpline welcomes certainty from Problem Gambling Levy Regulations

Gambling Helpline welcomes the certainty of funding to prevent and minimise gambling harm being set out for the next three years (1 July 2006 – 30 June 2010), reported in the Problem Gambling Levy Regulations 2007.

“This will allow us to plan for the long-term and make investments which will enable us to continue to develop how we work with problem gamblers and their families,” said Krista Ferguson, chief executive of the Gambling Helpline.

“We look forward to working with the Ministry of Health and others in problem gambling and gambling sectors to achieve the aims of preventing and minimising gambling related harm,” she added.

However, Krista Ferguson said they are disappointed with the lack of funding for innovative approaches towards gambling harm in the levy.

“Unfortunately the service plan associated with the levy does not allow for an innovations fund to address new strategies for the complex personal, community and social harms related to problem gambling – something we recommended to the Ministry of Health during consultation,” she said.

If you are worried about your gambling or that of someone close to you call the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblingproblem.co.nz.

ENDS

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