Gambling: what’s the harm?: Exploring gambling harm and support for university students

This event is open to all

Gambling is part of everyday student life for many people – from sports betting and gaming to online casinos. But for some, it can quietly start to affect mental health, finances, relationships, and academic life.

Gambling: what's the harm? is a free webinar exploring how gambling harms can affect students, what support is available, and how recovery and harm reduction are possible.

This session is open to everyone – whether you’re personally affected, worried about a friend, studying related topics, or simply want to understand the issue better.

What the session will cover

• How gambling harms can show up in student life
• The links between gambling, mental health and wellbeing
• What confidential support and treatment options are available locally and nationally
• Lived experience of recovery and peer support
• Practical ways to seek help early or support others

Speakers

The webinar will be chaired by Professor Ed Day and will feature contributions from:

• Jessica Parker, Ygam – on gambling harms in student populations and national survey insights
• Julie Westrupp, clinician from the Midlands NHS Gambling Service – on assessment and treatment
• Luke Trainor (Better Than Well) – on peer support and recovery
• Student shares lived experience of developing a gambling problem as an undergraduate

A safe and supportive space

This event is designed to be:

• Non‑judgemental and student‑centred
• Practical and hopeful, focusing on support and recovery
• Confidential, with clear signposting to support services
• Inclusive, recognising a wide range of experiences and levels of harm

Support

Information about confidential support services will be shared during and after the session, including University support, NHS services, and specialist charities. If you find the topic difficult, you’re encouraged to take breaks or step away at any time.

National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133