Staff at Clacton Pier have been given safer gambling training in a bid to provide vital support to customers.
The session, which was staged today, was attended by 15 employees who now have the insight, knowledge and confidence to help visitors in the pier’s amusement arcade.
It will empower staff to intervene if they feel an individual is experiencing problems and help customers to gamble responsibly through educational information, as well as to access support organisations if required.
The aim is also to equip them to ensure that no one under 18 enters adult only areas or plays on the machines in those zones.
It will further mean the trained members of the team will be able to take someone through the process of how to self-exclude themselves for a period of time should they wish to.
Pier General Manager Harry Peek said it is all about providing key members of staff with social responsibility training so they can spot warning signs.
“The session was delivered by Bacta, the UK’s leading trade association representing the amusement and gambling industry,” he added.
“We want everyone who comes on the pier to be able to enjoy a fun and safe entertainment experience.
“The training would normally be for those specifically working in the arcades but we have extended to all operational managers for the first time. They will have the awareness of what to look out for and how to step in.”
Mr Peek said it is all part of an ongoing and full commitment to help pier staff in their learning and development.
“This has become a significant priority in recent years and we are determined to provide the best we can for our employees,” he explained.
“Bacta, which helps fund and is a leading participant in the national Safer Gambling Week was the ideal partner for this particular session.”
David Miller from Bacta delivered the training.
“It is really good that Clacton Pier has taken our training on board,” he added. “We are here to provide advice to all our members and would encourage others in the industry to join so they can benefit from it.”
