Independent review highlights Ygam’s impact on parents and families
The evaluation, conducted by Sherbert Research, examined Ygam's programme, which includes online workshops, educational resources and the Family Hub website.
Key points:
– An independent evaluation found Ygam’s parent programme significantly increases awareness of gaming and gambling harms
– Parents reported greater confidence in setting boundaries and having open conversations with their children
An independent evaluation has confirmed that Ygam’s dedicated parent and carer programme is delivering meaningful results in helping families protect children from potential gaming and gambling harms.
The report, conducted by Sherbert Research, highlights how Ygam’s workshops, Family Hub resources and online tools are equipping parents with the skills and confidence to manage gaming and gambling risks in the home.
The evaluation, which reviewed the programme against Ygam’s Theory of Change, found “strong evidence” of increased awareness and positive behavioural shifts among parents and carers.
As such, participants reported a better understanding of the potential harms linked to gaming and gambling-like features – including in-game purchases and microtransactions, which often go unrecognised compared to more widely acknowledged online gaming risks.
Additionally, parents shared that the programme reduced stigma around these topics, encouraging more open family discussions and proactive steps to safeguard children.
Practical actions taken by families included adjusting screen time, reviewing spending on games and setting clear household rules.
Good to know: One parent discovered their child had spent over £200 ($271) on in-game purchases and, following the workshop, put new parental controls in place
Commenting on the findings, Claire Patel, Ygam’s Programme Lead for Parents and Carers, stated: “We welcome the findings of this evaluation, which highlight the widespread and meaningful difference our programme is making for families.
“Parents and carers know their children better than anyone, and they have a crucial role to play – but they consistently tell us they often feel under-informed in today’s fast-moving digital world.
“We remain committed to listening to families and providing the information and tools they need to promote healthy habits and safeguard their children from potential harms.”
The programme assessment follows recent leadership changes at the charity, with Dr Jane Rigbye stepping down as CEO after three and a half years in the role.
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