A new British charity fund has been set up to help teenagers know and understand the risks involved with gambling, educate them about gambling addiction and help them avoid it, after the gambling laws were changed in Britain after September 1st. Gamble Aware will provide advice on gambling and operators will have to include its website www.gambleaware.co.uk in any advertising, as part of their commitment to responsible gambling.
The risk that teenage boys will fall prey and become addicted to gambling is an acute one. This is most marked in older boys, but younger ones are also at risk, as it has been noted that they steal their parent’s credit cards in order to play in the online casinos. There's a danger of a rise in problem gambling. Young males between 18 and 21 are most at risk because they can get a credit card and join online poker games.
The Responsibility in Gambling Trust has taken the lead in setting up the website. Director Malcolm Bruce said: "Gamble Aware will be a one-stop shop for information and advice about gambling. It will help consumers manage their gambling, understand how gambling works, learn about new player protection measures being brought in under the Gambling Act, and find out where to get treatment and advice if they feel their gambling is getting out of hand.
"We aim to provide impartial and authoritative advice on all forms of gambling, from bingo to betting, gaming machines and online poker," he said.
The new website will have a range of interactive features and information designed to meet gamblers' needs. It will emulate drugs and alcohol advice site, Frank, giving gamblers players' tips and advice on how to gamble sensibly, plus tools to help responsible gambling, including time management and budgeting.
Information, links and advice for those concerned about gambling moving beyond their control will also feature prominently.
Culture minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "Gambling can be an enjoyable leisure activity. But what is a harmless past-time for some can lead to problems for others, and it is essential that people know how to gamble responsibly. Gamblers need to have access to the full facts about gambling, and this website is a good source of sensible information."
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