Ygam, a prominent charity dedicated to protecting children and adolescents from the negative impacts of gambling, recently hosted an event attended by a diverse range of stakeholders. This gathering provided a platform to introduce Ygam’s new strategy, reaffirming their commitment to educating and safeguarding young individuals aged 7 to 25. With a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Ygam aims to adapt to future challenges and continue their impactful work beyond 2025.
Event Overview:
Damian Collins MP, former minister responsible for gambling and Chair of the DCMS Select Committee, opened the event by emphasizing the charity’s efforts in protecting young people from the adverse effects of gambling. The keynote speech was delivered by Mike Wojcik, Chair of the Ygam board of trustees and Chief Executive of Queen Mary’s University London Student Union. Wojcik highlighted the transformative year Ygam had experienced, solidifying their purpose, identifying unique expertise, and better understanding the needs of their stakeholders to offer effective programs and services.
Ygam’s Vision and Mission:
Dr. Jane Rigbye, Ygam’s Chief Executive, took the stage to present the charity’s new vision, mission, and ambitions. Recognizing the tremendous opportunities the digital world brings, Dr. Rigbye stressed the corresponding risks faced by young people living in an increasingly digitized society. Ygam aims to fulfill its purpose by delivering evidence-based programs and continuously improving their impact, thereby ensuring the safety and well-being of young individuals.
Closing Remarks:
The event concluded with a keynote address by Jeff Smith MP, the Shadow DCMS Minister, who called for the government’s forthcoming White Paper to emphasize education and prevention in combating gambling-related issues. Daniel Bliss, Ygam’s Director of External Affairs, expressed confidence in the charity’s new branding, which aligns with their significant evolution since 2014 and enhances their ability to effectively connect with target audiences.
Innovative Approaches to Tackle Gambling Risks:
Ygam’s updated strategy showcases their commitment to utilizing innovative approaches in addressing gambling risks among youth. By incorporating the latest research and leveraging technology, Ygam aims to enhance their educational programs and initiatives. Through collaborations with government bodies, regulators, academia, charities, trade associations, and local authorities, Ygam seeks to create a comprehensive network of support, enabling those who influence young lives to effectively safeguard them.
Education and Prevention:
One of the key focuses of Ygam’s new strategy is emphasizing the importance of education and prevention. By providing comprehensive resources and evidence-based programs, Ygam aims to equip parents, educators, and other influential figures with the necessary tools to identify and mitigate gambling-related risks. By intervening early and fostering an understanding of responsible digital behavior, Ygam envisions a future where young individuals are better prepared to navigate the challenges posed by the digital world.
Adapting to a Changing Environment:
Ygam recognizes the need to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of technology and gambling. By staying informed about emerging trends and understanding the evolving behaviors of young people, the charity ensures its programs remain relevant and effective. This adaptability allows Ygam to proactively address new challenges, such as the rise of online gambling platforms and the increasing accessibility of gambling-related content.
Collaborative Partnerships:
Ygam’s event highlighted the importance of collaborative partnerships in achieving their goals. The presence of MPs, Peers, government representatives, regulators, academia, charities, trade associations, and local authorities underscored the collective effort required to protect young individuals from gambling-related harm. By fostering these partnerships and engaging with stakeholders from various sectors, Ygam enhances its capacity to drive systemic change and enact meaningful policy reforms.
Ygam’s recent event served as a platform to introduce their new strategy, solidifying their commitment to protecting children and adolescents from the negative effects of gambling. Through education, prevention, and innovative approaches, Ygam aims to empower young individuals to navigate the digital world responsibly. By forging collaborative partnerships and adapting to a changing environment, Ygam is poised to make a lasting impact in safeguarding the well-being of the next generation.