Gambling Support BC
Last updated on April 13, 2026Most people in B.C. who gamble do so for entertainment and participate responsibly. However, some players may develop problems related to excessive gambling. Gambling Support BC provides tools and support services to help British Columbians make informed decisions about gambling.
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Gambling support BC
Gambling addiction is treatable and help is available.
Get help in recognizing the warning signs of gambling addiction and information on free programs, services and resources to assist individuals struggling with gambling and their families.
Gambling Support BC provides British Columbians with free information and resources to support informed choices and healthy behaviours with respect to gambling participation. Free treatment and support services are also available for anyone struggling with their own or a loved one’s gambling.
The program offers:
- A 24-hour, toll-free Gambling Support Line: 1-888-795-6111
- Free counselling and referral services
- www.gamblingsupportbc.ca provides information on gambling and gambling addiction (including the odds of winning and myths about normal gambling behaviour)
- Province-wide education and awareness services
- Brochures, help-line stickers and posters promoting responsible gambling and the Gambling Support BC program - available at casinos, bingo halls and lottery retail outlets
- Research on responsible and problem gambling
- Education and training in problem gambling issues to addiction counsellors and allied professionals throughout the province
Other related initiatives
- Anyone under the age of 19 is prohibited from participating in commercial gaming activities in B.C.
- The number of casinos and other gaming facilities are limited in the province
- Casinos, bingo halls and PlayNow.com are required to provide a free, voluntary self-exclusion program under which a person may ask to be barred from such gaming facilities for a specified period
- In every casino in British Columbia, a GameSense Advisor is available to those experiencing harm from gambling
Reports
Reports related to responsible and problem gambling in British Columbia.
- BC Online Problem Gambling Prevalence Report (2020) (PDF, 1MB)
- Online Gambling During Covid Survey (2020) (PDF 485KB)
- Hosting a Gambling Facility: A Local Government Information Package on the Public Health Risks of Gambling (PDF)​
- 2014 British Columbia Problem Gambling Prevalence Study (PDF, 4.6MB)
Contact information
Please visit the Independent Gambling Control Office (IGCO) website if you have questions about gambling in B.C., to report wrongdoing, or to access the Gaming Online Service.