1. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Money, Money, Money - It’s not funny … in a Gamblers World “dreams v reality” With Carol Biggam and Alecia Browne The Gambling Debt Helpline Problem Gambling National Provider Forum 2009

2. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Session Overview Today, we will focus on:  Dreams v Reality in relation to money & debt  How Lenders and Advertisers can influence gamblers  Loans – the real costs  The Significant or Affected Other  Gambling Debt Helpline - What do we do?

3. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Fantasy v Reality Gambling related money problems  Frequent crises around money and debt  “Quick Fixes”  Distorted thinking / Emotional turmoil

4. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz What this can mean … Escape  Ambivalence Dream  Denial Power  Powerlessness Depression  Hopelessness Sex  Prostitution Borrowing  Taking / theft Life ?Death

5. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Cultural Considerations … For some cultures, there are additional pressures or considerations … tithing / church obligations family shame Language barriers

6. Helpline 0800 654 655www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Credits Cards – so easy to get – so hard to repay They tell you … “A credit card is an essential Financial aid” Get cash when you need it You get extra spending power (!) “we are pleased to increase your credit limit: ? (dream) The Reality There are Hidden costs The Small print – penalties on defaults Spending power costs you dearly You can keep gambling using your credit card At what cost? apply Today! Apply on-line Now!

7. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz

8. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Reeling you in … offering you $$$$

9. Helpline 0800 654 655www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Lenders Language (hooking us in)  Small print = sign first, read later high interest Penalties More Penalties

10. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Oh dear, what now ?

11. Helpline 0800 654 655www.gamblingproblem.co.nz What about Significant Others ? Escape  Ambivalence Power  Powerlessness Depression  Hopelessness Anger  Denial Rescueby Paying gambler’s debts Loss of Trust in relationships

12. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Significant Others need To … understand the reality and implications of their partner’s (or family members) financial situation In order that they can take action … To protect their financial rights / assets They need information on implications of debt Significant Others need support and encouragement to take positive action for Themselves

13. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz The GDH Model (in brief) Seeking help  Choices / empowerment Prioritising issues Referral & Follow- up Clarifying Expectations Exploring money issues and /or extent of debt Looking at Options for client The model is used with Gamblers and Significant Others Safety

14. Helpline 0800 654 655www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Our Message to You … There are hidden “Costs” in borrowing Reassure clients there IS a way out (of financial difficulties) … there are options; Encourage them to seek further help with their finances from:  GDH (Gambling Debt Helpline )  CAB (Citizens Advice Bureau)  Family Budgeting services  Community Law offices

15. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz We can also offer Trained Gambling / Financial Counsellors and cultural training to other agencies –Education around legal and consumer issues –Networking and on-going support to clients and counsellors

16. Gambling Debt Helpline 0800 654 658www.gamblingproblem.co.nz Contact Details Alecia Browne alecia.browne@gamblingproblem.co.nz alecia.browne@gamblingproblem.co.nz Carol Biggam carol.biggam@gamblingproblem.co.nz carol.biggam@gamblingproblem.co.nz Phone: 0800 654 658 (limited hours)