The protection of players is the common thread running through all the missions of the Gaming Commission (GC). Indeed, gambling is no ordinary economic service. Moreover, in 1980 pathological gambling was recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation. Gambling entails serious risks: it can lead to gambling addiction and large financial losses. The negative effects of addiction are often not limited to the player in question but also affect those around them (e.g. family or work situation). That is why it is important that players do not escape the watchful eye of the GC.
The GC has taken protective measures to protect players from these potential risks.
In recent years, for example, the regulations have been changed on several occasions to better protect players. Examples include the ban on bonuses, the setting of a limit on play (maximum 200 EUR/week/player) and strict regulation of gambling advertising.
In the menu on the right, you will find information about the access ban (on a voluntary basis or at the request of someone close to you) that can be imposed by the GC.
The addresses of support organisations that can help you or people around you with gambling problems are grouped per province. Talking to a professional about these problems can be a step towards recovery. Or you can raise your concerns with a person of trust or your GP.
Do you feel that taking the step to counselling is too big? Then you can check on various websites whether you are at-risk, and possibly follow the self-help programme or find support online:
- Dutch: www.gokhulp.be or www.druglijn.be
- French: joueurs.aide-en-ligne.be, cyberdependance.be or cliniquedujeu.be
The GC's gambling leaflet contains a range of useful information, including what exactly a gambling addiction entails, and various advice.
If you have any questions about problems with gambling, you can always call the free-phone number SOS SPELEN: 0800 35 777, which is available 24/7.
In the event of financial problems, you can ask for help at the PCSW or at a Centre for General Welfare work (CAW). Or take a look at www.eerstehulpbijschulden.be (Flanders), http://www.mediationdedettes.be/Ici-vous-trouverez-quelques-adresses-et?lang=fr (Brussels) or http://socialsante.wallonie.be/surendettement/citoyen/?q=services-mediation-dettes (Wallonia).