Students in the North West recently joined Anglicare to raise public awareness about responsible gambling.
The Polytechnic students held ‘flash mob’ events in Devonport and Burnie promoting the message ‘the longer you play, the more you lose’.
The activities were part of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week. One of the participants, Shirley McVilley spoke publicly about her own struggles with problem gambling.
“First came the loss of friends, then the loss of family,” she said. “I finally went to Anglicare for help. I chose the path to live because before I had no life. I had nothing”.
Shirley is now a mature age student undertaking a Certificate III in Community Services. “I have a new network of friends,” she said.” I have some family support back. I have a bank account. I have had a holiday. I have more confidence now.”
“Every day is a new day and I’m loving it.”
She said she wanted to let others know that there was help available to overcome gambling addiction.
“I would recommend that they contact someone to help and strongly advise that they self-exclude,” said Shirley. “I want them to know that they are not alone. Everybody thinks that they’re alone, but they’re not.”
To find out more about how commercial gambling games of chance work visit www.knowyourodds.net.au
For free information, counselling and support state wide call Gamblers Help on 1800 858 858.