The New South Wales Gambling Impact Society has introduced its new “lived experience project” that will enable people affected by problem gambling to share their stories. The initiative is funded by the New South Wales Office of Responsible Gambling. Director Natalie Wright said the goal is to “build community awareness of the harm that can be experienced by some people from online gambling through this project and encourage those struggling to seek help.”
She said real-life experiences act “as a powerful tool in helping people understand the impact problem gambling can have.”
The participants will speak to community members, welfare services, community groups, health services and corporate organizations.
According to SBC News, the project will spread awareness about problem gambling and promote self-help and professional support for those who are affected.
Katie Roberts, executive officer of GIS said, “It’s common for people at risk of gambling harm to relate easily to others who have experienced what they are going through and overcome their problem.
“Starting a conversation can help de-stigmatize the subject of problem gambling and encourage people who are suffering in silence to reach out for help.”
The program is part of the NSW government’s AU$25 million (US$17 million) strategy to help tackle problem gambling in communities throughout the region.
