Leeds United Foundation link up with charity to raise gaming and gambling awareness

The Leeds United Foundation has begun a new partnership with national charity Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) to help educate young people in the region.

The new link up will see the club's official charity aid in safeguarding youngsters from gaming and gambling-related harm across the county.

As part of a National Education Programme, YGAM are currently providing free accredited workshops and resources to anyone who works with or cares for young people.

The club's Foundation staff have undergone training that will help identify issues and harmful behaviour related to gaming and gambling.

Amy Bussey, YGAMs’ Education Manager for Yorkshire and Humber, said: “Gambling is often described as the hidden addiction and education is essential in preventing harm.

"People do not realise the correlation between gambling and other risky behaviours.

"It is vital that we raise awareness of gambling to try and bring it to the forefront and open those positive conversations.”

Nigel Thewlis, Head of Secondary Education at the Leeds United Foundation, added: “The workshop provided by Amy from YGAM was very informative and educational and we can’t thank them enough for their support.

"I was astonished at some of the statistics mentioned and particularly the information relating to the gaming industry.

“I would highly recommend this training to any schools, community groups or others who work with young minds.

"I am pleased that the Foundation now has the knowledge to help deal with these issues and support young people and their families in our local community.”

Once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, YGAM will be looking to support the Foundation with schools-based delivery of their training and will be delivering their resources alongside coaches at the Leeds United Foundation to reach as many local schools as possible.

Any schools, organisations or individuals in the Yorkshire & Humber area who are keen to take part in these free training workshops are encouraged to email [email protected]