Recent data released by the UK Gambling Commission reveals a worrying surge in youth gambling in Great Britain. Over the past year, the percentage of children classified as problem gamblers has more than doubled, placing approximately 85,000 young individuals in this concerning category, as identified using the DSM-IV-MR-J screening tool.
Growing Problem of Youth Gambling Across the UK, Especially in Scotland
An Ipsos survey covering 3,869 students aged 11 to 17 across England, Scotland, and Wales indicated that 27% of these children had used their own money for gambling within the last year. Arcade games offering cash prizes proved to be the most popular, with 20% of young participants giving them a try. Furthermore, the number of youths engaging in age-restricted gambling activities, excluding arcades, rose from 4% in 2023 to 6%.
The increase in problem gambling was reflected in the 1.5% of young respondents who scored four or more on the DSM-IV-MR-J scale, suggesting problematic gambling behaviors. This is a stark rise compared to the 0.7% recorded last year. Notably, teens aged 14 to 17 and those from Scotland were particularly affected, with problem gambling rates in Scotland peaking at 3%.
Impact of Gambling on Daily Lives of Young People
The report also delved into how gambling is disrupting the daily lives of young people. Around 9% mentioned family disputes caused by a relative’s gambling behavior. Moreover, a growing number admitted to lying to friends and family due to their gambling habits or staying up late to gamble. School performance was also impacted, with 5% of respondents indicating that gambling hindered their studies, while 2% confessed to losing sleep due to late-night gambling sessions.
Call for Tougher Regulations from Former Conservative Leader
Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith expressed alarm over these findings and renewed his calls for stricter regulations, as reported by The Guardian. He emphasized that immediate government action is necessary to prevent these worrying trends from worsening. Although the government has acknowledged the potential harms of gambling and has hinted at a review of existing policies, critics are urging for more decisive steps to be taken.
Politicians need to find their way towards the public on this. It’s clear and obvious what can be done and what should be done.
-Duncan Smith
Link Between Gambling Ads and Youth Exposure
The widespread visibility of gambling advertisements is believed to play a significant role in normalizing gambling among younger audiences. Groups like the Coalition to End Gambling Ads argue that constant advertising contributes significantly to this problem, making gambling appear more appealing and acceptable to children and teens.
The findings highlight an urgent need for policy changes to protect the younger population from gambling-related issues. As the government reviews its rules, there is mounting pressure to prioritize youth safety and reassess the current system to prevent further harm.
Funding Initiatives to Combat Problem Gambling in Communities
In related news, efforts to combat problem gambling have received a boost through community support initiatives. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), a U.S.-based nonprofit focused on minimizing gambling-related harm, recently announced the allocation of $320,000 in Agility Grant funding to eight organizations working at the local level. This funding aims to bolster prevention efforts and raise awareness about the risks associated with gambling.
NCPG Continues Its Support for Community-Led Efforts
Since its inception in January 2022, the NCPG’s Agility Grants program has invested over $1 million in various prevention initiatives. Grants are awarded biannually, in spring and fall, with the most recent round occurring in Fall 2024. The next application period for Spring 2025 grants will open on January 15, 2025, and close on February 26, 2025, with recipients announced in May 2025.
This program is supported by contributions from organizations such as the NFL and the NFL Foundation, reflecting the sports league’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling. Additional backing from partners like FanDuel and PlayTech ensures the program’s flexibility and effectiveness in addressing gambling issues.
Emphasizing the Importance of Community Involvement
Anna Isaacson, the NFL’s Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility, highlighted the growing need for community-driven solutions to tackle problem gambling, especially as sports betting expands across the country. The NFL remains dedicated to supporting the NCPG and its innovative approaches to prevention.
Keith Whyte, NCPG’s Executive Director, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the necessity of investing in community-based initiatives for effective gambling prevention. The latest round of Agility Grant funding will benefit organizations such as CADCA, Envision Partnerships, Neighborhood Youth Academy, and more, furthering their mission to combat excessive gambling and mitigate harm.
