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 illegal 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.
The 2018-19 My Health My School survey asked questions about gambling behaviour for the first time. These questions were answered by 6,940 secondary school pupils across Leeds, in years 7, 9 & 11 (aged 11 to 15) and by 632 post 16 students.
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).
The most common form of gambling amongst secondary aged pupils were:
- 21% via gaming or skin betting
- 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
National research estimates that between 1-2% of young people are problem gamblers which is similar to, or sometimes even higher than, the % of problem gamblers in the adult population.
Useful links
Big Deal
Information for young people related to gambling – either for themselves or someone they care about.
Go to Big DealStaying safe on line
Information on online safety from Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership
Go to LSCPNational Gambling Helpline
Information or brief advice for anyone affected by gambling problems.
Open 24/7
Chat function and focus also available.
Find out more Call 08088020133Young People's Support Service
Individual tailored support, 1-1 counselling for young people via video call
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