Preventing gaming and gambling harms

Ygam, the UK’s leading charity dedicated to safeguarding young people from gaming and gambling harms, partnered with The Scout Association—one of the UK’s most iconic youth organisations. They joined forces for a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at young people with a passion for sport, helping them develop a deeper understanding of the potential risks associated with gaming and gambling; while building resilience against the impact these harms can have on their mental health and wellbeing.

Recognising the unique reach and influence of The Scouts, Ygam embedded its preventative education by redesigning key elements of the Sports Enthusiast badge curriculum, with the Ygam logo featured on a special edition badge awarded to those who complete it. This included three bespoke resources that support the activities required to achieve the badge within the Scouts’ informal learning framework.

The pioneering partnership has so far empowered over 50,000 young people with the tools and knowledge to make informed choices and prevent gaming and gambling harms—enabling them to navigate the digital world safely. Ygam’s free specialist training also equips Scout leaders across all regions of the UK with the skills and confidence to deliver impactful sessions to the young people they support.