The charity highlighted a study conducted by the British Gambling Commission, which revealed that young people are at the highest risk of experiencing gambling harm when they gain independence from their parents. Furthermore, the study found that almost one-quarter of student gamblers are vulnerable to some degree of gambling-related harm.
To address this issue, GamCare has taken multiple steps to raise awareness about gambling harm among students. One of their initiatives is BigDeal, a website that provides support and information about gambling specifically for young people.
Additionally, GamCare and BigDeal will be launching a Young Adult Advisory Board this autumn. The aim of this board is to raise awareness among individuals aged 18-25 about the potential harm associated with gambling and inform them about the available support resources.
GamCare senior programme manager, Alexa Roseblade, emphasized the need for increased awareness among young people, stating that many are entering environments where gambling has become normalized. However, there is a lack of knowledge on how to recognize gambling harm or where to seek support.
Various factors contribute to gambling issues among students, including having more free time, personal independence, and financial freedom. Access to easy credit options such as overdrafts and loans can also encourage increased gambling behaviors.
Matt Burgiss, education and training lead for the South East and East of England at GamCare, has personal experience with gambling harm during his time at university. He now works with young people to help them avoid similar issues and emphasizes the importance of educating them about the risks of gambling.
Burgiss believes that by sharing personal stories and experiences, the stigma surrounding gambling problems can be broken down. He hopes that his own story can inspire positive change in others.
In June, GamCare published its new three-year organizational strategy with the goal of providing universal access to support and treatment for individuals impacted by gambling-related harm.
