If you find yourself gambling too much, or if it no longer feels like a game, the Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program can be an important first step in helping you to control your gambling.
What is the Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program?
The program enables you to voluntarily exclude yourself from all venues with slot machines, commercial bingo halls, or from accessing BCLC's on-line gaming site, PlayNow.com, for a pre-determined amount of time. Research has shown that when voluntary self-exclusion is combined with treatment, it can be one of the most effective means to stop gambling.
There are three different voluntary self-exclusion options to choose from. You can sign up for one, two, or all three.
- Self-exclusion from all venues with slot machines including casinos, community gaming centres with slot machines and the gaming floor of race tracks with slot machines.
- Self-exclusion from commercial bingo halls.
- Self-exclusion from gambling on PlayNow.com.
Voluntary Self-Exclusion Brochure [84KB]
How do I sign up to be voluntarily self-excluded?
To access the program, visit a GameSense Info Centre and speak with a GameSense Advisor, or ask any staff member at any casino, community gaming centre or commercial bingo hall.
You can also visit the BCLC offices in Kamloops or Richmond, or call BCLC's Consumer Services at 1-866-815-0222.
How long will I be self-excluded?
The length of the exclusion is up to you.
Choose from:
- 6 months
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
Counselling services are free and confidential. You can expect help and support from trained professionals who will not judge you, who understand your problems and who can help you work out ways to reduce the problems associated with gambling.
What happens if I voluntarily self-exclude?
Self-exclusion starts the moment you sign up and lasts for the period of time chosen by you. Voluntary self-exclusion can't be revoked. It ends when the agreed upon exclusion period ends. Self-exclusion to casinos or commercial bingo halls applies to every venue in BC. In other words, you can't exclude yourself from just one facility.
Once you've signed up, the information you provide will be given to all security offices in gaming venues featuring slot machines and/or commercial bingo halls throughout BC. This is done to help you honour your commitment.
If you are a BC Gold member, your account will be deactivated and you will be asked to redeem your points for cash.
If you choose to be excluded from PlayNow, BCLC will cancel your Player Account, close your eWallet and pay out any unredeemed PlayerCash once you have completed the online form.
Upon completing your application, you'll be asked if you want to share your information with a counsellor. If so, a counsellor will contact you.
Can I exclude a spouse or family member?
It's understandable to want to help a loved one who is in trouble. However, only the person seeking exclusion can sign up. No one can do it for them.
What happens if I enter a casino and gamble while in the VSE program?
If you enter a casino while self-excluded, security will be alerted and you will be asked to leave. In accordance with the Gaming Control Act, you may also be fined up to $5000.
What happens if I win a jackpot while in the VSE program?
Any money you win while in the VSE program will be withheld from you and used to fund responsible gambling related research.
What should I expect from counselling?
If you feel overwhelmed by problems caused by gambling, counseling is available to you free of charge. You can expect confidential help from trained professionals who will not judge you, who understand your problems and who can help you work out ways to reduce the problems associated with gambling.
How do I renew my VSE or reinstate myself in the program?
If you wish to remain self-excluded after your exclusionary period ends, you must give written notice to BCLC. Send a letter requesting an extension and be sure to include the length of time (6 months, 1 year, 2 years or 3 years). Mail your letter before your current self-exclusion period ends to:
BCLC
Manager Casino Security and Surveillance
74 W. Seymour Street
Kamloops, BC
V2C 1E2
