Stronger Together: Taking an interfaith approach to safeguarding young people against gambling harms

During Interfaith Week 2024, Ygam highlights the importance of a multi-faith approach to preventing gambling harms as part of digital safeguarding efforts within marginalised and faith-based communities.

The Gambling Commission’s latest report shows that 27% of 11- to 17-year-olds gambled in the past year. In 2024, approximately 85,000 young people have been identified as experiencing harms related to gambling. The proportion of young people stating that they do not participate in gambling because it is against their religion has increased, from 10% in 2022 to 15% in 2024. Yet, the report also found that those from black, ethnic minority, and faith backgrounds are more likely to disagree that people have spoken to them about the problems gambling can lead to.

The harms associated with gambling do not affect everyone in the same way, however poor mental health can be both a cause and a consequence. Experience of racism, discrimination, or hate speech may increase a young person’s likelihood to experience poor mental health. This experience of discrimination can either act as a driver to escapist and risk seeking behaviours, or further exacerbate their situation making them even more vulnerable to gambling harms.

GambleAware’s ‘Minority Communities & Gambling Harms’ report found that the number of minority group individuals who perceive there to be negative judgement from wider society towards those who gamble (43%), is statistically significantly higher compared to White British Majority individuals (21% and 31% respectively). Individuals from Minority groups experience stigmatisation both from within their own communities and wider society.

In addition to a young person’s immature psychological development, young people from marginalised or faith communities may also be more vulnerable due to their perceived limitations in seeking help or speaking to someone about their concerns. Although some people experienced additional stigma because their culture or religion prohibited gambling, it is Anticipated stigma, i.e. the worry of being judged if found out, that serves as a significant barrier for young people to access the support they need from friends, family, or services.

Regardless of background, we all want what is best for our children and young people; to protect and safeguard them. Gambling harms are experienced differently by everyone, but one thing is certain: gambling harms do not discriminate. And community not only matters but is essential in supporting those most vulnerable.

People working or volunteering in faith-based organisations and places of worship are often trusted members at the heart of any community and are vital in keeping their young people safe. However, a recent National Youth Agency report found that the Faith sector has one of the lowest attendances for NSPCC safeguarding training from Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs).

By taking an interfaith approach to safeguarding our children and young people against gambling harms, we can not only share insights, strategies, and resources, but create cohesion and a more comprehensive and holistic support network. This collaboration can also help to break down barriers and build trust between different communities, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness. In turn, creating a more open and empathetic environment for those young people needing support.

Ygam’s Community and Faith Leaders Programme aims to raise awareness and address the issue of gambling harms that disproportionately affect people from marginalised communities. People with lived experience cite stigma and shame associated with coming forward with gambling disorder and this may be experienced differently depending on social, cultural, or religious norms and beliefs.

Ygam’s dedicated programme approaches the topic of gambling harms with a faith and cultural lens. It outlines how you can help by providing you with the knowledge and skills to deliver your own sessions to young people. Our tools will enable you to spot the signs of harm and provide signposting to safeguard your communities.

When it comes to safeguarding our children and young people against gambling harms, we are stronger together.