The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) has confirmed two key changes to its voluntary self-exclusion (VSE) program in a move designed to increase support to players.

Firstly, the program’s name has been changed to Game Break in order to make the brand more approachable for prospective participants.

Secondly, there is now an active reinstatement process for individuals who choose to return to play, enabling better support for those that feel resuming 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,” explained 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.”

BCLC implemented these updates and enhancements on Jan 23, but chose to keep the terms of enrolment for the VSE program the same. Players can choose to enrol in Game Break for a six-month, one-year, two-year or three-year term.

Now, once they complete their Game Break term, individuals who choose to return to play are required to complete an online course called Game Plan. This course 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.

McCarthy added. “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.”