Help · Burnaby, B.C.
Help with gambling in Burnaby and B.C.
This page covers where to turn when gambling stops feeling like a night out. It lists the provincial help line, explains Game Break self-exclusion, and sets out a few signs worth noticing.
The legal age for gambling in British Columbia, casinos included, is 19. The help described here applies in Burnaby as it does across the province.
Call Gambling Support BC, any hour
Gambling Support BC answers at 1-888-795-6111. The call is free and confidential, and the line runs 24/7. It is open to anyone worried about their own gambling, or about someone else's.
Nobody needs a crisis to pick up the phone. A vague unease counts. So does a quiet question about a partner, a parent or a friend. The editors would rather readers call early than wait for a reason that feels big enough.
Game Break: self-exclusion, in person
Game Break is BCLC's voluntary self-exclusion program. Enrolment happens in person, at any casino, community gaming centre or commercial bingo hall.
Bring government-issued photo ID. A GameSense Advisor or a staff member guides the process and takes a photo, so nobody has to work it out alone.
Since June 26, 2023, every person entering a B.C. casino must show government-issued photo ID. Security scans it and checks it against the list of people restricted from entering, which includes those enrolled in Game Break. For people who are let in, the system does not save personal information.
Signs worth taking seriously
- Spending more than planned, more than once, and shrugging it off afterwards.
- Chasing losses, going back to win back money that is already gone.
- Hiding play, or what it costs, from partners, family or friends.
- Borrowing money, or moving it around, in order to keep gambling.
- Feeling restless or irritable on the days without play.
Questions
Does calling Gambling Support BC cost anything?
Calling costs nothing at all. The line at 1-888-795-6111 is free, confidential and open 24/7, for your own gambling or someone else's.
How does Game Break connect to the casino door?
Every person entering a B.C. casino must show government-issued photo ID. Security scans it and checks it against the list of people restricted from entering. People enrolled in Game Break are on that list. For those who are let in, the system does not save personal information.