UK Gambling Commission Documents Drop in Youth Gambling Participation
The UK Gambling Commission's 2026 survey shows youth gambling participation fell to 26% from 30%, while 89% still recall gambling advertising.Summary
The UK Gambling Commission's Young People and Gambling 2026 report, based on 3,867 pupil responses across England, Scotland and Wales, shows that 26% of children aged 11 to 17 spent their own money on gambling in the prior 12 months, down from 30% in 2025 and 50% in 2022. The share who had never gambled rose to 74% from 69.6%, and participation in age-restricted products fell sharply to 5% from 18%. Arcade machines remained the most common activity at 19%, followed by bets with friends or family at 11%. Advertising exposure stayed high at 89%, led by social media at 55%, and 22% had paid for virtual loot boxes. Awareness of gambling risks was reported by 81%, though only 0.9% noted negative consequences. Ben Haden, the Commission's Director of Research and Statistics, said the focus is on ensuring children cannot spend money on age-restricted gambling products. The findings follow criticism from commentator Dan Waugh of the survey's self-reported classroom format, and the Commission acknowledged the data reflect reported experiences rather than verified records. Separate Gambling Survey for Great Britain figures showed 0.6% of adults used illegal gambling websites in the prior four weeks.
(Source：Sccg Management)