THE Western Cape’s first “responsible gambling programme” was launched at the Kenilworth Addiction Treatment Centre in Cape Town on Thursday. The programme is funded by the province’s casino gaming industry and includes a toll-free national problem gambling helpline (0800006008), counselling and treatment for gambling addicts. Speaking at the launch, Cape Town University commerce faculty Professor Peter Collins said that in developed societies up to three percent of gamblers and potential gamblers were thought to be vulnerable to a gambling addiction. Among other things, “responsible gambling material” would be available for patrons in all the Cape’s casinos, and gamblers would be unable to obtain credit “on the spot”.