NGA KETE MATAURANGA POUNAMU TRUST

NGA KETE MATAURANGA POUNAMU TRUST & ILT FOUNDATION
Joint Media Release
Embargoed till 6.00 AM Tuesday, 22 April 2008

Small initiative with a potentially big impact in support of the problem gambler has come to fruition. ILT Foundation’s Manager, Ann Eustace, and Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Trust Problem Gambling Health Promotion worker, Eru Loach have spent energy and time developing an early intervention aimed to minimize harm caused by problem gambling.

Business sized ‘HELP’ cards with updated contact details for both local and national problem gambling support services have been designed and will be within arms reach of people playing the gaming (pokie) machines.

‘HELP’ cards will be placed in card holders attached to the side of the 189 pokie machines in the 12 Invercargill Licensing Trust’s venues.

Mr Loach stated the projects aim, “Some people that use the pokie machines no longer have to feel uncomfortable in approaching the ILT designated area in gaming machine venues for problem gambling support material. They can access the business sized ‘HELP’ card located on the machine they are playing and discreetly put it in their pocket. Whilst need may not present as immediate, the ‘HELP’ cards are small enough to tuck away for a time when support is required or to share with a friend or family member who is in crisis. The cards will HELP community play a responsible role in thinking about their own gambling behaviour or someone they care for”

Ann Eustace commented, “ the current support pamphlets are rarely being uplifted by people in the gaming venues. Having business sized support cards within reach of individuals on each of the machines will hopefully encourage people to take one. The ILT Foundation are taking an active approach to encourage harm minimisation for problem gamblers, over and above what is obligated by them under the Gambling Act 2003”.

Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Trust (NKMP) provides Free counselling and support services within the Murihiku (Southland) region for not only people with gambling problems, but also Alcohol and Drugs, Smoking Cessation, In Work Support, Road Safety Programmes, Mobile Nursing, Whānau Healthy Lifestyles, Rongoa – Natural Therapies, Massage Therapy, Public Health Promotion, Southern Institute of Technology Māori Support & Marketing.

NKMP CEO, Tracey Wright reflected…………….. “Gambling has long been a part of New Zealand’s historical landscape and for a large percentage of people it doesn’t become a problem but when it does behaviours change, relationships become strained and can crumble, trust is eroded and family are adversely impacted. Problem Gambling is a community issue that requires a community response. We are pleased to have progressed this initiative in partnership with the ILT Foundation”.

ENDS

About the Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust
The aim of Nga Kete Matauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust (NKMP) is to eliminate harm caused to individuals and whanau (family) affected by the consequences of addiction. They can aid you in overcoming addictions.
Addiction Counselling services are free, strictly confidential and can be accessed from our Town or Community Bases. They also offer a mobile service if you prefer us to come to you.

Addiction Services include Alcohol & Other Drugs along with Gambling Counselling.
Confidential appointments with our Counsellors on Free Phone 0800 925 242.
For more information about the Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust go to: www.kaitahu.maori.nz/education/

About the ILT Foundation
ILT Foundation distributes funds to the community of Invercargill from the proceeds of gaming machines operated in Invercargill Licensing Trust hotels, taverns and bars. The Foundation is a non-profit organisation and supports a broad cross section of non-profit community groups, charities, welfare agencies and educational organisations.

For more information about the ILT Foundation, go to www.iltfoundation.org.nz/

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