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Problem Gambling Awareness Program Visits MSVU

Monday, November 27, 2006

Students at Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) are invited to learn more about ways to avoid gambling-related problems by participating in Know the Score, an initiative developed by the Responsible Gambling Council and brought to Nova Scotia by the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (NSGC). The interactive awareness program dispels some common myths regarding randomness, shares signs of problem gambling, tells students where they can get help in their community with gambling-related problems, and suggests ways to limit their risks.

The Responsible Gambling Council piloted the program in Nova Scotia in 2004 and, based on the positive response from students, has expanded its outreach efforts for the 2006-07 academic year. Sponsored by NSGC, Know the Score will visit MSVU from November 27th to 30th. This is the one of 18 university and college campus visits scheduled in Nova Scotia between October 2006 and April 2007.

“Research has found that 18- to 24-year-olds are among the highest risk groups for developing gambling problems - that group has almost twice the rate of the general adult population,” says Lisa Couperus, the Council’s Manager of New Initiatives. Research conducted by the Responsible Gambling Council and the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse showed that more than seven per cent of 18- to 24-year-olds experience moderate to severe gambling problems, compared to 3.8 per cent found in the general population.

“Know the Score builds awareness around the risks associated with gambling. We are here to give people the information they need to make informed decisions,” adds Couperus. More than half of young people between the ages of 18 and 24 are in post-secondary education. University and college campuses provide an ideal forum for programs like Know the Score.

As part of Know the Score, students are invited to participate in a quiz by answering five questions designed to increase awareness. They can obtain the necessary information from the program’s website (www.knowthescore.ca) or from the highly visible Know the Score information display, which is staffed by student participants. Entrants receive daily takeaway information and those with all answers correct are eligible to win a $1,500 scholarship award, in addition to gift certificates for food and campus books.

In an effort to encourage more student participation and peer discussions, NSGC is increasing student involvement in the program by training local students to staff the display. Student staff will work together with a Know the Score representative in providing information and educational materials.

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation’s mission is to lead an economically sustainable and socially responsible provincial gaming industry for the benefit of Nova Scotians and their communities.

Established in 1983, the Responsible Gambling Council is a non-profit organization focused firmly on the prevention of gambling-related problems.