Addressing Gambling Harms in Wales
Gambling-related harm is a growing public health concern, particularly for young people. Research from the Gambling Commission (2024) shows that 52% of young people engage in gambling activity, with an estimated 38,000 in Wales experiencing gambling-related harms. These figures highlight the urgent need for education, prevention, and early intervention.
To tackle this issue, Ara has launched Ahead of the Game, a FREE gambling harms prevention programme for young people, parents, carers, and professionals. Through interactive workshops, digital resources, and direct interventions, we provide the tools to recognise risks, reduce stigma and seek support.
Taking Action: Raising Awareness and Linking Locally
We are committed to a locally tailored approach in Wales. Our Welsh Education and Prevention Leads, Helen and Hannah, are embedded in their communities, ensuring that our work meets regional needs.
Our FREE programme includes:
Workshops for Young People (11-24) – Delivered in schools, youth centres, and community settings, raising awareness of gambling harms, gaming risks, and informed decision-making.
Training for Youth-Facing Professionals – Equipping teachers, social workers, and youth workers to spot early warning signs and support young people.
Support for Parents & Carers – Helping families understand gambling risks, how their own behaviour may impact young people, and how to have supportive conversations.
Youth Portal – An online hub reinforcing workshop learning, offering self-assessments and independent exploration of gambling harms. www.AraEducation.co.uk
Events & Public Engagement – We attend Wellbeing Events, Freshers’ Fairs, and community activities, providing accessible, non-judgmental support.
Since 2020, Ara has provided gambling awareness workshops across Wales and the South West to over 30,000 young people and over 8,000 youth facing professionals.
If your organisation or event could benefit from our support, get in touch!
Making a Difference in Wales
Our programme is:
Engaging young people across Wales, equipping them to recognise gambling harms and make informed choices.
Providing direct support to young people and families, ensuring those affected can find age-appropriate services.
Increasing awareness among professionals, enabling them to identify risks and support young people.
Available in Welsh and English, ensuring equal access to information and support.
By embedding education, prevention, and intervention into schools, communities, and professional training, we are actively reducing gambling harms in Wales.
Let’s Work Together to Safeguard Young People: Book a FREE Workshop!
Education is key – Raising awareness prevents gambling harms before they begin.
Early intervention saves lives – Recognising signs of harm early reduces long-term consequences.
Support is available – If you or someone you know needs help, visit www.recovery4all.co.uk for immediate local support and counselling.
Find out more & book a FREE workshop:
North Wales: hannahgunn@recovery4all.co.uk
South Wales: helenwebstermorgan@recovery4all.co.uk
General enquiries: youth@recovery4all.co.uk
Let’s work together to protect young people and build a safer future for Wales.