Asian Team Marks Launch of Problem Gambling Campaign

A performance by a Korean cultural group will open an event to mark the launch of a campaign to prevent problem gambling at the Fickling Centre in Mt Roskill at 2pm on Friday.

The event organized by the Problem Gambling Foundation Asian Team precedes a national campaign which kicks off this Sunday ( 25 March ) with a 30 second television advertisement which encourages New Zealanders to think about problem gambling, who it affects, and the impact it has on communities.

John Wong, manager of the PGF Asian services team said that problem gambling affected the lives of many Asian Kiwis.

"Every week we deal with families devastated by gambling harm." he said.

'This campaign is a much needed effort to get people to realise that everyone is affected by problem gambling - our families, neighbours, and workplaces."

The Mt Roskill event will include the presentation of community awards to acknowledge the support and contribution of Asian community leaders and media in combating problem gambling.

The campaign will be explained and a preview of the television advertisements will be shown followed by a forum where MPs will discuss how gambling harm can be eliminated in the Asian community.

Mr Wong said, "We want our communities to know how they can get involved and take action to address this problem."

"There are things people can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe from gambling harm."

Free and confidential advice and support is available on the Asian hotline 0800 862 342.

Ends

© Scoop Media