On January 23, 2023, BCLC launched updates and enhancements to our voluntary self-exclusion (VSE) program—now called Game Break—to reduce stigma, make the program more approachable and embed additional elements to support our ambition of having the healthiest players in the world.
The enhanced Game Break program includes two key updates: a new name and an active reinstatement process for individuals who choose to return to play.
These changes will enable BCLC to provide better support to players with a name that is more approachable for individuals who wish to enrol, and better support for program participants who feel that returning to gambling is right for them.
“We want players to gamble within their time and money limits, and we want them to feel empowered to take a break if it’s what they need,” said Ryan McCarthy, Director of Player Health at BCLC. “Taking a break from something is often seen as a positive choice. We’ve designed the Game Break program to reduce barriers and destigmatize self-exclusion, while also including a reinstatement process to help participants better understand their own gambling behaviours if they wish to return to play.”
The terms of enrolment for the voluntary self-exclusion program will remain the same. A player can choose to enrol in Game Break for a 6-month, 1-year, 2-year or 3-year term. Now, once they complete their Game Break term, individuals who choose to return to play need to complete an online course, Game Plan. Game Plan helps people decide if returning to gambling is right for them by providing an opportunity to self-reflect and set out goals before they return. Program participants can also choose to extend their Game Break term.
With updated branding that is inviting and supportive, BCLC designed Game Break to evoke a feeling of empowerment for individuals considering a break from gambling as an opportunity to regain control.
“These changes to our self-exclusion program are another way that we’re working to help individuals make informed decisions about gambling and provide them with support and resources to help them practice positive play behaviours,” McCarthy said.
The Game Break program reflects BCLC’s ongoing commitment to deliver a higher standard of care for our players. For more information about Game Break, visit GameSense.com, and to learn more about our approach to player health, visit Player Health | BCLC.
