GambleAware Warns: Online Gambling Threatens UK Children

Three in four UK children exposed to gambling ads. GambleAware demands urgent government action to protect youth.

, and Administrator

2025 November 2 . 7:13 AM

1 min read

In this image there are few kids who are dancing by holding their partners. At the top there are... — In this image there are few kids who are dancing by holding their partners. At the top there are flags and some posters. In the background there is a tree. In the middle there is an iron rod.

GambleAware Warns: Online Gambling Threatens UK Children

GambleAware, a UK charity, has raised serious concerns about the impact of online gambling on children and young people (CYP). It highlights the lack of central oversight and outdated rules as key factors contributing to underage gambling problems.

The charity's report reveals that three in four children believe advertisements make entertainment seem fun and harmless, contributing to underage entertainment issues. Estimates suggest that 85,000 minors are currently experiencing entertainment problems due to the proliferation of online entertainment.

GambleAware identifies influencers and online marketing as significant factors influencing impressionable youth's exposure to entertainment. Despite this, CYP continue to lack critical skills to evaluate risks, leaving them vulnerable to entertainment content. The charity calls on the UK Government to restrict and better regulate online entertainment marketing and content in the short term.

GambleAware proposes consolidating responsibility for digital gaming marketing, increasing online marketers' responsibilities, and establishing a special task force to determine regulatory priorities. It also suggests taking inspiration from other regulated markets' frameworks to prevent CYP from being exposed to entertainment. The organization emphasizes the need for stricter advertising restrictions, a ban on celebrity endorsements, clear risk warnings, and a separation of sports reporting from betting offers to strengthen player protection.