New Study Reaches out to Gamblers

In line with its efforts to develop and evaluate effective prevention and treatment approaches, the Ontario Problem Gambling Research Centre (OPGRC) announced today that it is embarking on an innovative research project in partnership with Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG).

The project will test how frequent players at OLG Casinos and OLG Slots venues respond to mailed messages that discuss key signs of risk and show how to self-assess for them. The messages will also provide a link for those who wish to cut back or quit gambling.

The rationale behind the project is based on research findings that the risk of problem gambling increases among those who gamble once a week or more. The study will focus on such players and will endeavor to effectively reduce risk levels. Those who wish to seek help will be linked to a gambling treatment study funded by the OPGRC. The experimental program is designed to provide counseling that helps people gamble within their means or stop altogether.

Rob Simpson, Chief Executive Officer of the OPGRC said the project shows how organizations can work together to address important public health problems.

"We bring expertise in program design and evaluation to the table, while OLG provides more effective ways to reach out to gamblers," Simpson added.

The project is consistent with OLG's social responsibility mandate which includes a commitment to work with stakeholder organizations to develop innovative ways to reduce the risk of problem gambling.

"It is important to us to better understand the interests of our customers, and we are committed to taking steps to minimize the risks associated with gambling," said Duncan Brown, Chief Executive Officer of OLG.

The OPGRC is an arms-length provincial agency with a mandate that includes the scientific study of effective prevention and treatment responses to problem gambling.

OLG is a provincial agency responsible for province-wide gaming facilities and lottery games and is one of North America's most progressive gaming providers.

For further information: Judith Glynn, Director, Grants Operations, Phone: (519) 763-8049 ext. 223 OR toll free (877) 882-2204, Email: judith@gamblingresearch.org