A philanthropic organization, YGAM, dedicated to assisting youth and those struggling with gambling, has collaborated with Unison to initiate a novel program. This initiative will impart knowledge about gambling and its potential pitfalls to members of UK labor unions.
This program, financed by the National Gambling Education Programme, secured a substantial grant of £10 million (roughly €11.1 million or $13.1 million) from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). YGAM is generously providing complimentary workshops and resources to individuals who work with or care for young people.
The workshops delve into the intricacies of gaming and gambling within the UK, equipping participants with tools to safeguard young people from the detrimental effects of gambling. These tools encompass lesson plans, engaging activities, warning signs, and guidance on accessing support services.
Unison, boasting a membership exceeding 1.3 million, has already commenced meetings with YGAM across the nation. They are strategically planning training sessions in diverse regions of the UK through their dedicated education team.
Unison, a prominent organization dedicated to learning and development, has forged a strategic alliance with YGAM. Teresa Donnigan, the organization’s Learning and Organisational Development Manager, expressed her enthusiasm for this collaboration, highlighting the exceptional quality of YGAM’s training and resources. She emphasized that these resources will serve as a valuable asset for Unison members, empowering them to effectively engage with young individuals within public service settings.
Kev Cleland, Operations Director at YGAM, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to understanding the needs of both practitioners and young people. He noted that conversations with these stakeholders have underscored the growing demand for YGAM’s resources among Unison’s workforce.
Cleland further elaborated on YGAM’s overarching mission, which is to safeguard all young individuals and vulnerable groups from the potential risks associated with gaming and gambling. He expressed optimism that this partnership will enable YGAM to reach a substantial number of young people, raising their awareness of the potential dangers associated with gambling and gaming-related harms.
This new partnership follows the recent launch of the ‘Parent Hub’ by YGAM, a collaborative initiative with research teams from Newcastle University and Loughborough University. The hub serves as a comprehensive platform designed to educate parents and caregivers about the potential risks posed by loot boxes. It offers a wealth of resources, information, and activities aimed at ensuring the online safety of children.
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