BCH has better things to do than take a punt

HOW much money would you expect a local poker machine chews up on a regular day?

Between 2018 and 2019, an average of $157,646 was fed into pokies daily in Ballarat, across 14 venues. In that year, $57.5 million was collected.

Mindful of these statistics, Ballarat Community Health understands every resident has a part to play in the reduction of gambling harm.

BCH has launched program, All-In: Everyone Has A Part To Play In Reducing Gambling Harm, to support individuals, community groups, clubs, businesses and organisations in raising awareness of the harms of gambling, preventing it, shifting attitudes and driving addicted gamblers to seek help.

Project lead, Kate Diamond-Keith said All-In is designed to inspire proactivity and positive change, focused on reducing stigma, as well as the assistance-seeking during a challenging, isolating period.

“People may have some time on their hands in this current climate and we are taking this opportunity to promote alternative recreation opportunities to gambling, particularly in its online forms,” she said.

“We want people to get out into their gardens, take a walk or try a new hobby instead of turning to gambling for entertainment.

“There are so many activities that we can all try, and they don’t have to cost money. Cooking, gardening and jogging, or walking, are just a few things that we can do within our current restrictions, without turning to gambling.”

Groups have signed up for the program to reduce stigma of gambling present amongst members, with BCH championing local services and supports, other recreation activities, and providing an action guide to encourage operational change.

Via social and traditional media, All-In is rolling out across the region this week. Visit bchc.org.au for more information.