The Scouts organisation has announced a new partnership with Ygam. This collaboration aims to equip 10-to-14-year-olds with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices regarding gambling.
As part of the partnership, Ygam is sponsoring the Sports Enthusiast Badge which has been redesigned to include three new resources focusing on the relationship between sports and gambling.
These activities are designed to increase young people's understanding of potential risks and the impact of gambling on mental health and well-being.
Recent research from the Gambling Commission highlights the relevance of this initiative, revealing that 40% of 11 to 17 year-olds have had some gambling experience in the past year, with 25% spending their own money on gambling activities.
The resources also address gambling-like mechanisms in video games, a relevant consideration given that 91% of UK children aged 3 to 15 play video games, and 34% of 11 to 17-year-olds have paid for in-game items.
Dr. Jane Rigbye, Ygam CEO, stated: “We’re thrilled to be working with the Scouts, recognised globally for its programmes and activities aimed at the development of young people.
“Our organisations share many values and objectives, and it’s great to launch these new badge requirements ahead of the summer holidays when we know children will typically be spending more time online.
“We’re excited about the impact we can achieve through this partnership, as a large and diverse youth network will gain access to our award-winning educational materials.”
Ray Newman-Smith, a Scout Lead Volunteer, added: “The thing that struck me the most during and more so at the end of the session was how recognisable advertising brands were to the Scouts from brands that sponsor sporting events.
"I was surprised that nearly all of my Scouts knew most of the sports betting companies which is a worry considering the Scouts age range is from 10.5 years to 14.5 years!”
