• The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), which runs lotteries, casinos, and gaming centers across Ontario, is redoubling its efforts to implement a globally renowned program for responsible gambling. 
• The existing program, PlaySmart, has been renamed My PlayBreak and put out just in time for the first weekend of the National Football League (NFL) season.
• The goal of the new approach will be voluntary exclusion and reintegration.
• OLG desires to continue assisting clients in light of the most recent scientific evidence.

My PlaySmart Aims to Assist Consumers in Managing Gambling

The redesigned program emphasizes voluntary involvement and a more proactive approach, allowing individuals to return to gambling if they wish while maintaining solid safeguards. 

Those who desire to exclude themselves from gaming, however, can now do so using My PlayBreak, which enables consumers to obtain complete control over their gambling habits and provides for quick and easy onboarding. 

The interactive gambling experiences at OLG.ca, the Charitable Gaming Center, and provincial casinos are optional.

Alexandra Aguzzi stated that OLG is committed to continuing to serve players and customers through the creation of innovative solutions for responsible gambling. 

My PlayBreak is designed with current industry trends and consumer preferences in mind. Players have the ability to self-exclude themselves for periods ranging from 3 to 6 months, 1 to 2 years, 3 to 4 years, 4 to 5 years, and 5 years. In addition to being linked to the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC), the app also includes check-in calls as an option.

Placing an Emphasis on Assisting Customers to Succeed

The new initiative also takes into account the possibility that some individuals may wish to return to gambling. 

The app and OLG have streamlined the process by including a dedicated “Return to Play” option that enables consumers to resume their gambling participation, but only if certain criteria are met.

Shelley White, chief executive officer of the Responsible Gambling Council, has hailed the My PlayBreak initiative as a significant step forward in giving a more “person-centric” approach that makes it easier to control one’s gambling spending and habits. 

White stated that PlaySmart Locations will also be offered at the province’s 29 casinos and 37 charitable gambling centers. Overall, the app aims to establish tighter links to treatment and support services.