The UK’s national online self-exclusion scheme, GAMSTOP, has partnered with The Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) and RecoverMe, a gambling addiction self help app, on a tour of UK universities.
The United kingdom has an estimated 29 Million active gamblers according to recent studies.
‘The Gambling Support University Tour’ will see the three organisations visit universities across the UK in a bid to raise awareness of the dangers of problem gambling and to let students know of the resources that are available to them. All three will hold talks with interested students explaining how their services work and to answer questions about problem gambling.
YGAM has also confirmed that it will provide free gambling harms prevention training to staff members and student union leaders at each of the universities on the tour. This will allow staff to identify the signs of gambling harm and identify students that may be struggling or that need assistance.
The tour comes shortly after the release of survey data that reveals that 80% of students have gambled with 41% revealing that gambling at UK bookmakers and casinos had a negative impact on their student lives. This included missing lectures or failing to hand in coursework on time. As many as 20% of those surveyed admitted to using part of their student loan to gamble.
Jimmy Parkin, University and Student Engagement at YGAM said:
“Students are a key group for us, and the recent survey findings reiterate the importance of educating our young adults on the risks and harms associated with gambling. This university tour is the first of its kind. We hope by collaborating with GAMSTOP and RecoverMe, we can utilise our knowledge and services to ensure students have access to the information, resources and support they need to enjoy a university experience free from gambling-related harms.”
Katie Reynolds-Jones, Head of Marketing and Communications at GAMSTOP added:
“Over 58% of those signing up to GAMSTOP are between the ages of 18 and 34; it is therefore important that we understand students and ensure that we are reaching them effectively. Students need to be aware of the free tools and support available to them, and we are delighted to be taking part in this important initiative.”
Dr Adil Nayeem, Co-Founder of RecoverMe commented:
“The recent survey findings highlight how the student population can be a high-risk group for gambling-related harm. We created RecoverMe after one of our close friends at university struggled with a gambling addiction and did not know where to turn. We are excited to visit university campuses throughout the UK to speak to students and engage with staff. By collaborating with these great organisations, we can support students and help reduce gambling-related harm.”
The tour begins in November taking in university campuses in Birmingham, Exeter and Plymouth.
Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.