The Context

The 2026 National Gambling Survey jointly commissioned by YGAM and GAMSTOP has found that 53% of students report that their primary motivation for gambling is to make money. This makes perfect sense in a time where cost of living is high and exciting new opportunities to buy and bet are just a click away. And yet, the survey has also found that university students are losing an average of £50 a week to gambling, with 46% saying that gaming and gambling harm have negatively affected their university experience. An inability to afford food and accommodation, plus feelings of isolation, depression and shame, are common amongst those experiencing gaming and gambling harm – making them spiral into an unhelpful cycle. This is why organisations like YGAM exist.

Who Are YGAM?

Ygam are the UK's leading charity dedicated to preventing gaming and gambling harms among young people. As well as providing resources to help people directly affected, Ygam focuses on empowering communities to make a real difference through harm prevention. This is where you come in!

The Opportunity

Ygam are bringing their incredible ‘identifying gaming and gambling harm’ training to Coventry. This workshop is open to anyone who would like to step up and help their student community whilst increasing their knowledge and employability. All who complete the training will get a certificate of professional development, plus a digital badge to really help them stand out to future employers. You do not have to be—or know someone who is—a victim of gaming and gambling harm to take part. You could be interested in the gaming industry, looking for a chance to broaden your knowledge and transferable skills, or simply just want an opportunity to arm yourself with info that could support fellow students. For just 75 minutes of your time you will learn about:

• How students encounter gaming and gambling in their daily lives
• The role of advertising, social media, and evolving gaming mechanics
• Gaming, gambling, and their impact on mental health and wellbeing
• The blurred lines between gaming and gambling
• Understanding in-game purchases, microtransactions and virtual currencies
• Spotting the changes in behaviour that may signal harm 
• Where to find help when you need it

How Do I Get Involved?

The training will take place over Microsoft Teams on Monday 9^th November between 15:00-16:30. It's open to all campuses and registration couldn’t be easier! Simply click here as soon as possible, fill out your details and a joining link will be sent to you by Monday 9^th.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today and make your CV stand out by playing your part to help silence the stigma around gaming and gambling harm.