Young people across Ayrshire will now receive targeted education to highlight the risks of gambling.
In a project being rolled out by GamCare, the leading charity providing information, advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling, the Youth Outreach Programme is to expand to include every Scottish region after securing additional funding for two years.
It will offer free interactive workshops for young people aged 11 to 19 as well as free training to professionals working with young people.
Megan Pengelly, GamCare Risk Reduction Programmes Manager, said: "Our Youth Outreach Programme has reached more than 7500 young people so far, as well as a further 2000 professionals working to support them, such as teachers, youth workers and third sector representatives.
"The programme provides a vital opportunity to help young people build their knowledge, resilience and critical thinking skills around gambling, and creates a network of professionals who are engaged and understand how to support them should they need it."
Anna Hemmings, CEO at GamCare, added: "Our risk reduction programmes provide targeted engagement and support for groups at higher risk of harms because of gambling.
"We are proud of the good work we’ve been able to do, and we are happy to be able to expand our work with young people to help to minimise the impacts of gambling-related harms felt by individuals, families and communities in years to come."
GamCare’s Youth Outreach Programme is also supported by a dedicated website for young people, parents and professionals BigDeal
