Council Launches Workshops To Reduce Gambling Harm

Wyndham City has partnered with Gambler’s Help and IPC Health to facilitate one-off workshops for Wyndham seniors and people who work with seniors to brainstorm a future free from gambling harm.

‘Stepping Out! Workshops’ are intended for seniors who live, work, or recreate in Wyndham, as well as any service providers, social activity planners or volunteers who work with or plan activities for seniors.

The workshops aim to build stronger social connections for older people, free from gambling harm, by encouraging seniors in Wyndham to consider alternate venues and activities for recreation.

The workshops are tailored towards participants’ accessibility requirements using in-language interpreters (for online and in-person workshops), hearing loops (for in-person workshops) and any other adjustments required to suit participants’ level of ability.

Interested participants can sign up as an individual, group or workplace.

Community Safety Portfolio Holder, Cr Susan McIntyre said Council is committed to protecting and promoting the health and wellbeing of all Wyndham residents by preventing the harms associated with gambling.

 “Half of the Australian Adult population aged 65 plus are at risk of experiencing gambling harm,” Cr McIntyre said.

“Many older adults visit gambling venues for non-gambling activities like to have a meal, catch up with friends, or participate in sport and recreation activities. “

“Evidence shows that during such visits, they will spend some time playing electronic gambling machines.”

“These workshops aim to educate seniors and those who work with seniors about gambling harm, and to discover gambling-free venues and activities for recreation in Wyndham.”

 “We are focussed on promoting a healthy social life for seniors, free from gambling harm, and to support our communities in Wyndham to make choices to participate in gambling-free activities.”

“We encourage all seniors and people who work with seniors to register for a workshop, to help create a future free from gambling harm.”

Workshops start next month and take place from March to August. Due to COVID restrictions, workshops are capped at 15 people. Sign up today:  https://bit.ly/3bR21uZ