Carolyn, ReSPIN Speaker Volunteer
Carolyn takes every opportunity she can find to speak out about gambling harm. She is determined to break down the stigma around gambling and help spread a message of hope.
‘I would sit playing the machines, telling myself: I can stop this any time I want. I couldn’t. When I gambled with money that wasn’t mine I ended up in prison. You don’t need to battle gambling on your own. Get help,’ says Carolyn.
‘I am proud of how far I have come and I love to help others through my volunteer work. I’m determined to get the message out and help others in need. There is hope. People don’t have to battle on alone.’
Carolyn is just one of over 20 ReSPIN volunteers who courageously tell their true lived experience of gambling harm through the media and community talks. The program has been running for five years and is funded by the VRGF. ReSPIN speakers provide free talks to community groups, health services and corporate groups.
At times the stories are heartbreakingly raw but the message is always the same. Recovery is possible – there is hope.
Photo: provided by Inside Gambling – https://www.insidegambling.com.au/editions/11/hero/a-grans-plan-for-recovery