UK charity GambleAware has aligned with “the experts in digital family life” Parent Zone, to launch a new campaign aimed at keeping children safer when accessing online games.
Parent Zone provides support and information to parents, children and schools, as it strives to help families navigate the internet safely and confidently.
As part of the new partnership both parties aim to help families learn about the gambling-like risks that eight to eleven-year-olds may face when playing online games, as well as providing simple, practical advice to keep gaming fun.
Vicki Shotbolt, founder and CEO of Parent Zone, said of the partnership “Gaming is an important, and fun, part of many families’ lives. But lots of parents do not know about the gambling-like features that are in games – and the risks these can lead to.
“We want parents to ask what games their children are playing, check that they are happy with what they are doing in those games and know what their children are spending money on.”
As part of the agreement a short animation has been designed to help families learn about the issue in a quick and accessible way, whilst a second film gives more detailed advice on what they can do to reduce risks.
Furthermore, alongside the films an online quiz and glossary gives parents and carers the chance to explore the topic further so that they help their children to stay in control.
“More and more children are being exposed to gambling like activity, and it is increasingly important that parents are aware of the risks of gambling and talk to their children about it,” added Dr Jane Rigbye, director of education at GambleAware.
“We’re really pleased to be able to work with Parent Zone to help educate parents about the gambling-like activity that their kids might be exposed to, and make sure they know about the existing help and support that is available.”
