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Join Carol Biggam and Alecia Browne for an insightful session on the interplay between dreams and reality in relation to money and debt in the world of gambling. Explore how lenders and advertisers influence gamblers, the hidden costs of loans, impacts on significant others, and the complex emotional turmoil associated with gambling-related money problems. Gain valuable insights into cultural considerations, credit card traps, dealing with significant others, and strategies for seeking help and empowerment. Discover the resources available to support individuals in overcoming financial difficulties and reclaiming control over their finances. Don't navigate this challenging journey alone — reach out for assistance today.
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Problem Gambling National Provider Forum 2009 Money, Money, Money -It’s not funny …in a Gamblers World“dreams v reality” With Carol Biggam and Alecia Browne The Gambling Debt Helpline
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?
Fantasy v Reality Gambling related money problems • Frequent crises around money and debt • “Quick Fixes” • Distorted thinking / Emotional turmoil
What this can mean … • Escape Ambivalence • Dream Denial • Power Powerlessness • Depression Hopelessness • Sex Prostitution • Borrowing Taking / theft • Life ? Death
Cultural Considerations … • For some cultures, there are additional pressures or considerations … • tithing / church obligations • family shame • Language barriers
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!
Other Money deals & offers
Lenders Language (hooking us in) • Small print= • sign first, read later • high interest • Penalties • More Penalties
What about Significant Others ? • Escape Ambivalence • Power Powerlessness • Depression Hopelessness • Anger Denial • Rescue by Paying gambler’s debts • Loss of Trust in relationships
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
The GDH Model (in brief) Seeking help Choices / empowerment Looking at Options for client Safety The model is used with Gamblers and Significant Others
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
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
Contact Details Alecia Brownealecia.browne@gamblingproblem.co.nz Carol Biggamcarol.biggam@gamblingproblem.co.nz Phone: 0800 654 658 (limited hours)