Have you ever betted on sports? Played online bingo? Or bought a loot box?
In the past 12 months:
- 60% of UK students have gambled, and 23% of these students have used their student loans for gambling.
- 48% of students who gamble say they have bet more than they can afford to lose.
- Nearly 45% of students who gamble shared that it had affected their university experience.*
The national lottery, online sports betting, online casino, bingo, and esports are the most common ways for students to gamble.
While loot boxes in video games are not covered by the Gambling Act 2005 (and as a result, are not regulated), these random chance purchases function in a similar way to other forms of gambling.
These activities can be enjoyable and entertaining, but they also carry the risk of harm if not managed responsibly.
If you find yourself betting more than you can afford to lose, borrowing money, or feeling stressed and anxious about gambling, you may have a problem.
Actions you can take today
The NHS’ ‘Help for problems with gambling’ resource shares helpful tips on how you can reduce gambling-related harms:
- sign up for GamStop – this stops you being able to use gambling websites and apps for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years
- install Gamban – this blocks access to gambling websites and apps on your devices
- ask your bank to block any money going to gambling websites and apps
- pay important bills, such as your mortgage, on payday before you gamble – you can set up direct debits or standing orders for this
- deal with your debts rather than ignoring them – visit the National Debtline for help
- spend more time with family and friends who do not gamble
- talk to someone you trust about what is happening
Seek help
Whatever situation you’re in, don’t stay silent. Seek help. Our Counselling and Mental Health Service and the Students’ Union Advice Service are here to offer free and non-judgemental advice.
We have a dedicated resource for students on ‘Maintaining your financial wellbeing’, where you can access a budget planner.
There are also external resources you can access such as GamCare who offer Gambling Harm Support. Additionally, YGAM can signpost you to more support services free for you to use.
Are you worried about someone who may having a gambling problem? You can read our advice on how to support them.