From 23rd March 2007 Gambling Helpline New Zealand’s Talking Point will host a new discussion, under a new topic “Community Voices”. This will provide a forum to exchange ideas and information about problem gambling in communities within New Zealand.

For example, people posting on the new topic might like to comment on what it means to them that there is a high availability of gambling in local communities in New Zealand.

There may be suggestions on how communities might work together to prevent and minimize gambling harm.

For example, how they might communicate with their local council on their gambling policy, etc.

We note that past users of the site have made some very interesting comments about their perspectives of the social and economic impacts of gambling at a local, national and global level and we invite you to post further in this topic on these issues.

We will be monitoring the different topics and ensuring that posts are placed in the appropriate topic,

i.e. personal discussions remain in the original two threads.

We expect communities to be inspired by the experiences that you have shared on the site to date. To support communities, Gambling Helpline New Zealand is also working with the New Zealand Health Sponsorship Council to disseminate community resources to interested groups and individuals. You can access these resources by calling Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 if you are in New Zealand or go to www.ourproblem.org.nz after the 23rd of March 2007.

GH Admin