Summary

• Starting April 1, 2026, a new integrated 24/7 service model will make it quicker and easier for people to access gambling supports in B.C.
• Gambling Support BC’s partnership with Telus Health will deliver more co-ordinated, accessible care, with services remaining publicly funded and free of charge
• A new gambling-prevalence study in B.C. is underway and will be released this spring

__________

People in British Columbia will have faster, easier access to gambling supports as the Province updates Gambling Support BC with a new integrated, provincewide service-delivery model launching April 1, 2026.

“The evolving nature of the gaming industry, such as the growth of online gambling, means we need to change the way gambling supports are provided,” said Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “The new service-delivery model will make accessing supports easier and more responsive for British Columbians in the moments when they need it most.”

Through a partnership with Telus Health, the updated model will bring together the existing 24/7 Gambling Support Line and clinical counselling services into one co-ordinated system, making it easier for people to get immediate information, support and referrals through a single entry point. 

• The updated service model strengthens Gambling Support BC’s role as a rapid-access, stabilization and connection point, helping people get support quickly and, where needed, transition to longer-term services in their communities.
• Under the new approach, people can connect with trained professionals at any time without an appointment, and be quickly matched to the right level of support based on their needs.
• Services will be available in multiple languages and remain free of charge, helping reduce barriers and ensuring more people can access care in a way that works for them.

“We recognize that problem gambling is a complex issue that impacts individuals, families and communities,” said Dr. Matthew Chow, chief mental health officer, Telus Health. “Through our customized telephone and web-based counselling services, we're thrilled to provide accessible, free support to help people on their path to recovery. This agreement with Gambling Support BC represents our continued commitment to social purpose, alongside our dedication to supporting the health and well-being of all British Columbians.”

Government is also strengthening Gambling Support BC’s Indigenous-specific gambling supports by improving funding flexibility and enabling community-driven service design, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, with a focus on mental health and substance use. These changes support culturally grounded, self-determined approaches to care for Indigenous communities.

The changes to Gambling Support BC are part of a broader effort to ensure services remain responsive as gambling behaviours evolve and individuals struggling with gambling can get support that works for them whenever they need it.

Gambling-prevalence study

With the growth of online gambling and other changes to the gaming industry, a gambling-prevalence study commissioned by the Province, and conducted by Leger, will identify trends related to gambling harms experienced by people in British Columbia. The study is underway and a full report will be released this spring.

Learn More:

• Learn more about gambling in B.C. here:
  https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/gambling-fundraising/gambling-in-bc
• Learn more about Gambling Support BC here:
  https://www.gamblingsupportbc.ca/