The Hub, which has been delivered by Scottish charity Fast Forward since 2018, will be recommissioned for a further three years.

Funded by GambleAware, the Hub works with young people and adults to raise awareness of gambling harms, and ensures that those working with young people and families are confident in their ability to offer harm reduction advice and signpost those who need such advice.

“Fast Forward has demonstrated its value as a key partner to prevent gambling harm among young people in Scotland,” said Dr Jane Rigbye, Prevention Director at GambleAware. “Given the success of the work already carried out, continuity is vital.

“The Scottish Education Hub has engaged with young people, parents, the community and youth workers in an impactful and creative way to deliver unique projects over the years.  

“We are delighted to support them further in their prevention and education work and look forward to publishing the independent evaluation of the project for their work in 2022.”

The Hub has trained staff from over 550 different organisations across all 32 local authorities in Scotland, including schools, colleges and universities, as well as youth work and family services. Its mission will remain to ensure all young people and families in the country have access to gambling education and prevention resources.

Allie Cherry-Byrnes, Fast Forward CEO, commented: “Fast Forward’s work supports young people to make informed choices regarding risk-taking behaviours, towards positive life-long health outcomes.

“Gambling has become normalised in our communities, with many young people affected by their own gambling, or by the gambling of a parent, carer, or family member. 

“The renewed funding from GambleAware means that the Scottish Gambling Education Hub will continue to work with young people, parents and educators to raise awareness of gambling harms and ensure support is accessible if they need it.”