I've been posting for a few years now and I'd be grateful if you could explain the rationale behind Gamcare's language policy, please.
I'm only asking because I've been in moments of real emotional distress through my gambling and when I come on here to post I use real language to show the depths of my fear/anger/self-hate/depression/anxiety, etc.
So many people find this site at their lowest ebb - then find the guts to post everything they've been holding back for years only to find their heartfelt words have been moderated. I'd understand if it was "C" word, or anything racist, homophobic or otherwise obnoxious and unrelated to gambling. But words like b***********d, and s h i t or even weaker are being moderated.
I can't believe anyone who actually reads this forum would be offended by cusswords? And if they have such moral outrage by the word "poo" then I'd suggest they've never really had a gambling problem if that is as deep as their understanding of horror/offence goes?
I doubt anyone under the age of 15 reads this site, nor do I think this is a family-fun website where we discuss the best way to breastfeed or save money on our holidays, etc? Therefore, could you explain the thinking behind this language policy, please, because it is really starting to get on my t**s! (Ohh "t**s", am I allowed to say that or does it offend someone, etc?)
Anyway, I know you are only funded by a billion dollar industry so I don't expect any response soon as I can apprecaite how under-funded, under-staffed, under-resourced you must be at Gamcare, my poor darlings. 😉
Sincerely,
Molehole.
PS/ just read back what I posted and I see you've even edited *******? Are you guys for real?! I lost thousands of pounds, thought about killing myself in graphic detail last week, hey that's all cool, yet I can't say xxxxxx because it might offend... Who exactly?!
You sound angry.
Yes, a little bit maybe. I don't believe people in emotional crisis should be censored. I think they should be free to let it all out when they need to in that moment without fear of judgement.
You've had a tough time recently molehill. It's ok to be angry
Dear Molehole
You've asked to have clarification on our language policy. We can understand your frustration as you feel our policy limits your freedom to express yourself. However, it's not about us judging your feelings, it's about trying to make the forum a place that everyone can use and feel comfortable in.
We have a policy on this forum, which has always been in place, that foul and abusive language will be edited out when seen. For some people this language may be cathartic and self-expressive, for others it may not be and might mean something quite different and result in offence. It's a difficult balance to get right - if you look further down the Feedback section, you will see a post from someone complaining about swearing being used. So it's possible that this is something that not all members feel the same way about.
Also, when feelings between members on the forum run high, it can be helpful to prevent such language being openly used as it can be used in a way that intimidates and upsets other members. We have seen this happen in the past, and are keen to prevent a repeat.
You might feel that a blanket ban is too much, but its been our experience that it is difficult to know where to draw the line, and so blocking out swearing in general seems the best solution.
We hope you can understand that we have to try and provide a good environment here for everyone who comes to the forum, or who just reads it from day to day.
Best wishes
GamCare Admin
Thanks for the clarification. I don't agree, but I do understand! And after all, it's YOUR website so you are free to run it how you wish! 🙂
I appreciate you coming back to me.
Best regards,
Molehole
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