Youth Protection: How UK Scouts And Ygam Are Tackling Underage Gambling Risks

Background of Underage Gambling in the UK

Prevention is better than cure, and an increasingly essential part of protecting young people growing up in a digital world. Kent Scouts have teamed up with Ygam to deliver FREE online training on gaming and gambling harms for Scout volunteers. YGAM in July also partnered research teams from Newcastle and Loughborough Universities to launch Parent Hub, a portal to educate parents and carers about the risks of so-called loot boxes in video games. The new initiative comes following UKGC statistics for 2023 that revealed that 48% of year-olds have had some experience with gambling in the past 12 months. The UK gambling stats also revealed that 15% followed and gambling operator on social media while 26% of the same age group spend their own money on gambling. The UK Government had previously stated that it would not include so-called loot boxes in gambling reforms.

The issue of underage gambling in the UK has garnered increasing attention over the years, as studies reveal troubling statistics about youth engagement with gambling activities. Various factors, including accessibility to online platforms and the pervasive influence of advertising, have contributed to this growing concern. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, organizations like UK Scouts and Ygam (Young Gamers and Gamblers Richville uk Education Trust) have stepped up to implement preventative measures aimed at safeguarding young people from the risks associated with gambling.

• The necessity of such initiatives is underscored by alarming statistics from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), revealing that nearly half of year-olds have engaged with gambling in the past year.
• By embedding crucial knowledge within the adventurous spirit of scouting, Ygam and Scouting UK are setting the stage for a more informed and resilient future, safeguarding the well-being of young individuals against the risks of problem gambling.
• “It’s another fantastic milestone reached for the programme,” YGAM’s head of the National Education Programme, Kyle Riding, said.
• The new initiative comes following UKGC statistics for 2023 that revealed that 48% of year-olds have had some experience with gambling in the past 12 months.

In addition, YGAM and GamCare announced in June they were to accelerate the digital transformation of their educational resources, in order to continue offering support throughout the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. SecEd prides itself on being written by teachers, for teachers and offering a positive and constructive voice for teachers and school leaders working in secondary education across the UK. YGAM has this year rolled out a number of additional tools and resources to help protect young people from gambling-related harm. “Working with sports clubs and groups is a natural progression for YGAM and something we have been making progress on for some time,” YGAM’s national education manager Sam Starsmore said.

The Role of UK Scouts in Youth Protection

In recent years, the role of UK Scouts has evolved to encompass new challenges that young people face in modern society. One of the critical issues being addressed is the growing concern of underage gambling. Youth protection organizations like UK Scouts, in partnership with Ygam (the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust), are taking proactive measures to safeguard young individuals from the risks associated with gambling. This article explores the strategies and initiatives implemented to tackle underage gambling and ensure a safer environment for youth.

Ygam: Mission and Objectives

Ygam, short for the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust, is a UK-based charity dedicated to preventing gambling-related harm among young people. Their mission is to inform, educate, and safeguard young individuals against the risks associated with gambling and gaming. By partnering with organizations like UK Scouts, Ygam aims to provide comprehensive education and support that empowers youth to make informed decisions, fostering a safer and healthier environment for future generations.

Joint Initiatives by UK Scouts and Ygam

In a collaborative effort to safeguard young individuals from the hazards of underage gambling, UK Scouts and Ygam have launched joint initiatives aimed at protection and education. With a focus on promoting awareness and providing essential resources, these initiatives strive to create a safer environment for youth, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize and resist gambling risks. This article explores the significant steps taken by both organizations to tackle this growing concern and highlights their commitment to youth protection in the contemporary landscape.

Impact of the Initiatives

Youth protection is a critical issue, particularly in safeguarding young individuals from the adverse effects of underage gambling. UK Scouts and Ygam (Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust) have taken proactive steps to address these challenges through various initiatives. By implementing comprehensive education programs, awareness campaigns, and support systems, they aim to equip youth with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the risks associated with gambling. This article explores the impact of these initiatives and how they are working to create a safer environment for the younger generation.

Future Plans and Strategies

In an increasingly digital world, protecting young people from the dangers of underage gambling has become a significant concern. With the rise of online platforms and easy access to betting sites, organizations like UK Scouts and Ygam are implementing robust future plans and strategies. These initiatives are aimed at shielding the youth from gambling risks and educating them on the potential harms associated with it. By combining their efforts, UK Scouts and Ygam are paving the way for a safer and more aware generation.

Resources and Support

Youth protection is a critical issue, and organizations like UK Scouts and YGAM (Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust) are making significant strides in addressing the risks associated with underage gambling. By implementing comprehensive educational programs and providing vital resources and support, these organizations aim to safeguard young individuals from the potential harms of gambling. This article explores the collaborative efforts and strategies employed by UK Scouts and YGAM in their mission to protect youth from the dangers of gambling.

Conclusion

In an era where the digital landscape is ever-expanding, the risk of underage gambling has become a pressing concern. As such, comprehensive youth protection measures are essential. In the UK, organizations like the Scouts and Ygam are taking significant steps to mitigate these risks and educate young people about the dangers of gambling. This article examines the various strategies and initiatives these organizations have implemented to safeguard the youth and foster a safer, more informed generation.