Councillors concerned at underage online gambling in Sheffield

Underage gambling was highlighted as an issue in the 2019/20 annual report from the Sheffield Children’s Safeguarding Partnership.

Councillor Colin Ross told a scrutiny board: “My impression was gambling featured more in this report than it did in others.

“I know from personal perspective when I’m watching Sky Sports, the adverts are almost total absorption on gambling companies there and it does worry me.

“I think that’s coming through in the report because young people are exposed to the flashy adverts about the joys and enjoyment of gambling. Is this becoming an increasing issue?”

Coun Cliff Woodward said video games which required players to pay money were also a problem.

“Gaming can be highly addictive with young people spending money to get up to the next level and keep up with their mates,” he said.

“I know a family in dire circumstances because of this with an adult and we don’t want to get children on a conveyor belt of addiction.”

David Ashcroft, independent chairman of the partnership, said young people were being surveyed about gambling and gaming to see the extent of the problem.

He added: “We shouldn’t exaggerate this. It’s serious and important where it occurs but we need to keep it in proportion.”

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