Players who frequent the River Rock Casino and Resort can once again safely connect in person with an on-site GameSense Advisor (GSA) starting July 1.
Jonathan Qiao, River Rock’s dedicated GSA, is one of many British Columbia Lottery Corporation’s (BCLC) health specialist who is returning to casinos and community gaming centres across B.C. next week.
Qiao was introduced as River Rock’s newly hired GSA in 2019 to help players who have developed, or may be developing, a gaming addiction.
“I’m really looking forward to connect with players in person again,” said Qiao.
“While so much has changed over the last year, what hasn’t is our role in helping players keep gambling fun through understanding how the games work, creating time and money limits and providing support to those who want to take a break.”
He previously told the Richmond News that he helped many Chinese immigrants by debunking gambling myths and connected with those who feel they needed the support in establishing healthy playing habits.
BCLC’s director of player health Dr. Jamie Wiebe said GSA’s are eager to reconnect and support healthy play for players across the province.
“GameSense Advsiros are excellent listeners and whether players stop by the GameSense Information Centre to chat about their day, how the games work, or odds of winning, we know that these interactions result in players feeling more informed and connected to available resources, and further support if needed,” said Wiebe.
GameSense Information Centres have also added physical barriers, such as plexiglass, in order for employees to provide support in a safe manner to players.
GSAs can also be reached by telephone at 1-866-815-0222 or online at www.playNow.com from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. PST.
-with files from Nono Shen
