Help Gambling (17 or under)
1 in 4 Leeds secondary pupils have taken part in gambling. Many of us ‘gamble’ without realising, because it is part of a social activity or (online) game. The definition of gambling is “risking your money, or anything of value, on an uncertain outcome”. Most gambling activities are not officially legal for under 18s.
If you feel that your gambling, or someone else’s, is having a negative impact on your mental/physical health, school work, finances or relationships, then it is important to talk about it with someone you trust or seek help.
GamCare’s Young People’s Service can support anyone aged 18 and under who is having issues with gambling. The service is free, flexible and confidential. They are a non-judgemental team who understand it’s not easy to talk about difficult things. They aim to make things as easy as possibly by tailoring your sessions around you in a way that makes you feel most comfortable.
The 2018-19 My Health My School survey asked Leeds pupils questions about gambling behaviour for the first time. The survey told us that 24% of secondary aged pupils had taken part in gambling activity (higher than smoking, drugs, but lower than alcohol). 32% of post-16 pupils surveyed had taken part in gambling (higher than drugs, but lower than alcohol and smoking).
National research estimates that between 1-2% of young people may qualify for a ‘gambling disorder’ diagnosis. That figure is similar to, or sometimes even higher than, the proportion of adults with gambling disorder. It is reassuring to know that a small proportion of Leeds pupils (0.4%) said they worry about gambling compared to other issues such as money problems (2.5%).
The most common form of gambling amongst secondary aged pupils were:
- 21% via gaming or skin gambling
- 20% bingo
- 19% betting on sporting events
The most common form of gambling for the post-16 year groups were:
- 24% national lottery scratch cards.
- 18% placing a private bet with friends
- 17% betting on sporting events
The survey was repeated in 2019-20. Despite a much smaller number of pupils completing the survey due to Covid and school closures, the results stayed roughly the same.
Useful links
Big Deal
Information for young people related to gambling – either for themselves or someone they care about.
Go to Big Deal
National Gambling Helpline
Information or brief advice for anyone affected by gambling problems.
Open 24/7
Chat function and forums also available.
Find out more Call 08088020133
Young People's Support Service
Digital 1-to-1 tailored support for young people and/or their carers.
Are you a parent or carer?
If you’re looking for more information to support a young person you care for with their mental health, visit our parent and carers page.
