Time-out room a first for NSW gamblers
Embargoed till 17 May 2010
Time-out room a first for NSW gamblers
As part of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week UnitingCare Unifam Counselling and Mediation Service is launching two innovative services in Gosford on Monday 17 May to help support people whose lives have been adversely affected by gambling.
The first initiative is a time-out room which is a joint project between the Gosford RSL and Unifam Gambling Addiction and Family Service.
Director of Unifam Clive Price said, ‘The time-out room is a first for NSW and will allow gamblers the opportunity to take a break from gaming in a safe and respectful environment. They can have a free coffee or tea, reflect on their behaviour and explore options for support and tools for recovery.’
A qualified counsellor will also be on hand from time to time and staff from Gosford RSL staff will constantly monitor the room.
As well, Unifam is launching a self-advocacy project for chronic gamblers that will help them tell their stories and identify the sort of support and services they require for their recovery.
Executive Director of UnitingCare NSW.ACT and Chairperson of the Responsible Gambling Fund, Reverend Harry Herbert said ‘Unifam has long recognised that teaching people to advocate on their own behalf can have real and positive effects on their lives. Self advocacy gives people the confidence to explain their situation and their needs to family, the wider community and decision makers. By advocating for themselves people can change their lives and help others in similar situations.’
Responsible Gambling Awareness Week (May 17-22) is an initiative of the NSW Government and aims to promote Gambling Help Services.
You can contact Gambling Help on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au.Counsellors are available by phone or live online 24 hours a day.
To take part in the self advocacy project contact Unifam Gambling Addiction and Family service on 4325 9666.
The launch will take place at Gosford RSL, 26 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford at 10 am, Monday 17 May 2010.
To contact Reverend Harry Herbert call Sandra Black on 02 8267 4256 or 0412 412 375. To contact Clive Price call 0417 681 686.Other media enquiries to Mark Warren 0438 294 938.
