ads and images targeting children in the UK have reached alarming levels, a leading charity has warned.
According to a report released by the Children’s Society, the number of gambling advertisements and images being shown to children online has increased significantly in recent years. The charity found that children are now being bombarded with these ads on social media platforms, online games, and even on websites specifically designed for kids.
The report also highlighted the potential dangers of this bombardment of gambling content on impressionable young minds. Studies have shown that exposure to gambling advertisements at a young age can increase the likelihood of developing a gambling addiction later in life. This is particularly concerning given that the legal age for gambling in the UK is 18, and children are being exposed to these ads even before they reach that age.
The Children’s Society is calling for urgent action to address this issue and protect children from the harmful effects of gambling advertising. The charity is urging the government to introduce stricter regulations on gambling advertisements aimed at children, as well as calling on social media platforms and online gaming companies to take more responsibility for the content they allow to be shown to young users.
In response to the report, a spokesperson for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport said, “We are committed to protecting children and young people from the risks associated with gambling. We have already taken steps to strengthen regulations around gambling advertising and are continuing to monitor the situation closely. We will take further action if necessary to ensure that children are not exposed to harmful content online.”
The news of children being bombarded by gambling ads and images online has sparked outrage among parents and child welfare advocates. Many are calling for swift action to be taken to safeguard the well-being of young people and prevent them from being lured into harmful gambling habits.
As the debate around gambling advertising targeting children continues to grow, it is clear that more needs to be done to protect vulnerable young people from the negative impacts of this content. The Children’s Society is leading the charge in advocating for change, but it will take a concerted effort from all stakeholders to truly make a difference in combating this harmful trend.