Key findings

• Despite those aged 18-24 being less likely to engage in gambling than the general population, they are more likely to experience gambling problems (according to the Problem Gambling Severity Index).

• Among 18-24 year olds, those from Black and South Asian ethnic backgrounds, those living in the most deprived areas, males, heterosexual individuals and neurodivergent individuals experience a higher level of gambling problems than their counterparts.

• While the prevalence of gambling problems varies across demographic groups, the resultant emotional and psychological burden is consistently elevated among groups experiencing greater disadvantage.

• Financial difficulty is a key driver of both gambling harm and poor mental health among 18-24 year olds.

• Children and young people’s financial and media literacy needs to be improved to reduce harm from gambling and poor mental health.