The Association of British Bookmakers Scottish division has launched a new project to curb underage gambling.
The association will fund the six-month project along with Paisley based charity RCA Trust to hold education and counseling support for 2,500 young people. Schools in Clydebank, Glasgow, Renfrewshire and Rutherglen will be invited to take part in the project, the association said in a press release.
“As with adults, the vast majority of young people gamble for fun and only bet what they can afford,” ABB Scotland spokesman Donald Morrison said. “However, the number of problem or at risk young gamblers is a matter of concern, particularly as evidence shows that young people who gamble are more likely to become problem gamblers as adults. It is important therefore that problems are identified at an early age and the necessary support is offered.”
The project is the latest in a series of responsible gambling measures introduced by the ABB, including a nationwide multi-operator self-exclusion scheme – initially piloted in Glasgow – that allows gamblers to exclude themselves from all betting shops in their area, a Scotland wide Gamble Aware campaign, and confidential drop in sessions for customers in the West of Scotland concerned about their gambling spend, the release said.
