Ygam launches esports and gaming harm prevention programme

UK-based safeguarding charity Ygam has launched a harm prevention programme focused on protecting young people participating in gaming and esports.

The initiative aims to educate and support gamers along with parents, carers and industry professionals.

According to a release, the Ygam initiative is designed to help ‘create a safer, more supportive experience for young people’. The programme covers a variety of topics ranging from microtransactions, advertising and pursuing a career in esports.

The team behind the gaming and esports programme will provide a full set of open sessions taking place throughout April and May.

The public launch of the programme follows a successful pilot that was trialled at the Sheffield United Community Foundation and students studying esports at Sheffield Hallam University. Ygam says the pilot was “well-received by both staff and young people.”

“It’s vital that we recognise the central role gaming plays in the digital lives that children lead today,” said Sacha Kent, Programme Lead for Gaming and Esports at Ygam. “This new programme marks an important step in helping young people enjoy gaming safely, with the knowledge and tools to better understand risks and harms.”

In January 2023, Ygam unveiled a three-year strategy aiming to prevent children and young people from experiencing the harm generated through certain aspects of gaming and gambling. The charity says 96% of young people who participate in a programme have a better understanding of how to stay safe while gaming.

Within the UK, the importance of safeguarding within esports and gaming has increased. In January 2024, the NSPCC unveiled a safeguarding event in collaboration with British Esports to encourage positive practices within the industry.

Alongside charities, the likes of Fnatic and Guild Esports have also embarked on implementing safeguarding policies to raise awareness of the topic in the wider industry.