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Gambling Minister leads tributes to Ygam on 10th anniversary milestone

Published

1 year ago

January 31, 2024

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Ygam has celebrated the start of its milestone 10th anniversary year with an outpour of support from Parliamentarians, charity leaders and academics.

In the last decade, Ygam has solidified its position as a prominent leader in the gaming and gambling harm prevention sector. Since 2014, Ygam’s portfolio of evidence-based programmes, has reached over 3 million children and young people. Over 17,000 delegates have been trained by Ygam, including over 11,000 teachers. Throughout this period, the charity has maximised its impact and influence by collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders.

Gambling Minister, Rt Hon. Stuart Andrew MP, led the messages of support for Ygam, saying “Our gambling white paper proposes a number of significant steps to protect young people from gambling harm, including consulting on lower thresholds for financial risk checks and a lower online slot stake limit for 18-24-year-olds.

“These measures are on top of robust age verification controls for online gambling, and a ban on sportspeople and celebrities with strong appeal for children from appearing in gambling adverts.

“I congratulate Ygam on their 10th anniversary and we will continue to work closely together with them to prevent young people from gambling harm.”

Stephanie Peacock MP, Shadow Minister for Media, Gambling and Sport, also congratulated Ygam on its decade of impact, saying “Over the last decade, the landscape for gaming and gambling has changed dramatically. Gone are the days when you had to walk to the bookies to place a bet, casinos are now available in our pockets.

“Amidst this change, organisations like Ygam have been doing crucial, proactive work – raising awareness, conducting research, and educating young people – so that future generations can be better protected from gambling harm.

“I thank Ygam for their preventative work and look forward to working with them going forward in our shared commitment to address youth gambling harm.”

Rt Hon Dame Rosie Winterton DBE, MP for Doncaster Central, played pivotal role is supporting Ygam’s founders to establish the charity in 2014. The Deputy Speaker said, “It is remarkable to think that it was ten years ago when my constituents, Anne and Keith Evans, turned the tragedy of their son Alan Lockhart’s suicide following years of gambling addiction into a beacon of hope and avenue for change with the founding of Ygam. Over the past decade, I have seen Ygam grow and witnessed first-hand the fantastic work they do in order to reduce gambling harms through their various tailored programmes. The teaching materials Ygam provides for teachers and schools, for community and faith leaders, and for gambling operators, sees to it that more people are aware of the dangers of problem gambling, can more easily identify those who are at risk, and can therefore seek help in a timely fashion.

“Ygam have doubtlessly aided the lives of countless people, particularly young people, by allowing them to see the warning signs of gambling addiction and give them the tools to intervene. Ygam has grown and changed much over the intervening years, however those core values established in its founding in 2014 still shines through to this day.”

Beyond the walls of Parliament, a multitude of stakeholders and partners have demonstrated their support for this anniversary achievement.

“I am delighted to support Ygam celebrate its first decade as a charity. Like PAPYRUS, founded by parents who lost a young person to suicide, Ygam is justly proud of its achievements, turning tragedy to hope. I have attended some of the excellent training provided and hope that we can do more together in the years ahead to raise awareness of gaming and gambling harms and, more broadly, to prevent suicide. Congratulations to Ygam. Together we can help to save young lives.” Ged Flynn, Chief Executive Officer at PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide

“Congratulations to Ygam on reaching such an important milestone. Protecting young people from gambling related harms remains a critical priority for society that continues to require work.” Vicky Shotbolt, Chief Executive Officer, Parent Zone

“Gambling harms is a serious public health issue and Ygam plays a valuable role in working to protect young people and children from gambling harm. I congratulate them on their decade of hard work to address this important issue.” Zoë Osmond, Chief Executive Officer, GambleAware

“Over the past decade, Ygam has grown into a leader in the gaming and gambling harms sector. The team’s dedication to safeguarding children and young adults leaves a lasting impact on the lives they touch every single day. Your ambitious plans for 2024 and beyond will help Ygam reach even more young people in the ever-growing digital world.

“Gordon Moody is incredibly proud to work alongside Ygam and we send your team congratulations and best wishes for your tenth anniversary. 2024 will be a pivotal year for the gambling harms third sector and we look forward to working closely with the Ygam team on our shared commitment to preventing gambling harms as we navigate the changing landscape.” Monica Shafaq, Chief Executive Officer, Gordon Moody

“GamCare is proud to have been a partner with Ygam in their decade of growth and achievement – making a huge difference to gambling harms education and prevention. Their clear focus on safeguarding the next generation has ensured thousands of professionals and parents receive information to safeguard children and young people from gambling harm. We look forward to collaborating over the coming years in our shared mission to support anyone affected by gambling.” Margot Daly, Chair, GamCare

“Congratulations to Ygam in reaching their 10 year anniversary! As a long time collaborator – from start up to present day – we recognise the impact that the charity has brought to the gambling education and training space, always looking to provide high value and innovative services in the pursuit of prevention and reduction of gambling harms.” Frankie Graham, Chief Executive Officer, Betknowmore UK

“Congratulations to the team at Ygam for reaching this important milestone. We believe that Ygam’s work to educate young people about gaming and gambling is paramount to the reduction of gambling-related harm and the stigma attached to it. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Ygam over the years, with the university tour collaboration being a particular highlight. Congratulations on 10 years of much needed and truly impactful work.” Fiona Palmer, Chief Executive Officer, GAMSTOP

“Congratulations on 10 years of work helping to address gambling harms amongst children and young people. It has been a pleasure working with the team over the past few years. Wishing you well for the next 10 years.” Professor Agnes Nairn, Co-Director of Bristol Hub for Gambling Harms Research

The milestone year will be marked through a series of special events, campaigns, and announcements.

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Oddsgate launches 2025 trend guide for the iGaming market

Published

6 hours ago

January 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: < 1 minute

The post Oddsgate launches 2025 trend guide for the iGaming market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

Quick Custom Intelligence and Modulus Celebrate Success at ICE

Published

6 hours ago

January 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), a leading provider of cutting-edge business intelligence solutions for the casino industry, and Modulus, an innovator in advanced gaming system technology, are pleased to announce a successful showcase at the International Casino Expo (ICE).

Throughout the event, both companies met with dozens of current customers and new prospects, demonstrating the latest in AI technology and data-driven business intelligence tools.

By joining forces in the Modulus booth, QCI and Modulus underscored the synergy of their combined technologies, generating excitement among attendees. The live demos highlighted how these next-generation solutions can empower casinos to make data-driven decisions, enhance customer engagement, and streamline operations.

“The energy at this year’s ICE was truly inspiring,” said Marc Attal, COO of Modulus. “Our newest technology received an exceptional response, and our digitalization strategy for slots and tables resonated deeply with clients who clearly saw the benefits of optimization it brings. Showcasing QCI’s solutions in our booth amplified our message and created an immersive experience that highlighted the potential of the cutting-edge AGI55 platform. The excitement and enthusiasm from both existing and prospective clients made this one of our most successful shows yet, reaffirming our commitment to innovation and excellence.”

“It was fantastic to be part of the show,” remarked Andrew Cardno, CTO of QCI. “Meeting so many new customers and prospects has sparked a sense of excitement and optimism for what lies ahead for QCI in the global casino market. We are grateful to Modulus for the opportunity to partner in showcasing how our integrated solutions can help casinos operate more efficiently and profitably.”

Both companies look forward to expanding their footprint in international gaming markets, fueled by the success and enthusiasm generated at ICE. QCI and Modulus remain committed to developing innovative technologies that drive real-world results for casino operators everywhere.

The post Quick Custom Intelligence and Modulus Celebrate Success at ICE appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

TEAM VITALITY PRESENTS ITS NEW ROSTER VALORANT THROUGH THE LEGACY CAMPAIGN

Published

6 hours ago

January 30, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 4 minutes

After achieving an exceptional end to the 2023-2024 season, Team Vitality returns with strong European and International ambitions.
Since the start of the season, two superstars have joined the ranks of the Team Vitality roster: Derke and Less, alongside Sayf (IGL), Kicks and Trexx. The club’s new ambassador: Ardiis, will cast their matches all year round. With this team, the goal is simple but audacious: lay the foundations for a new legacy, make history on this new stage and qualify for the VALORANT Champions.
Thus, Team Vitality is preparing to write a brand new FPS game story supported by the LEGACY campaign. And its first Ice & Fire chapter begins today!

Team Vitality proudly presents its VALORANT roster for the 2025 season. After securing a second European place and qualification for the VALORANT Champions 2024 at the end of last season, the team will endeavour to maintain its high standards and continue to shine on the European (VCT) and international scene. The first key meeting for this team is at the VALORANT Bangkok Masters 2025 on February 27th.

With a combination of youth, talent and experience, Team Vitality is proud to welcome two new international talents to the roster, with an already established track record in the game: Finnish-Russian Derke, the Brazilian powerhouse Less, and a new coaching staff.

A FIVE STAR ROSTER TO CONQUER THE WORLD

Team Vitality returns more determined than ever to the VALORANT scene. With two new players joining Kicks, trexx and Sayf (IGL and Team Captain), hoping to win a VCT title. In addition to this brand new roster, Team Vitality also integrates a new experienced coaching staff with the arrival of Faded.

New players and coaching staff

Nikita “Derke” Sirmation (Finnish-Russian) – 21 years old: Former Counter-Strike player who switched to VALORANT. Considered one of the top three duelists of all time, Derke is known for his exceptional skills and decisive impact during matches and dominated the VCT:2023 LOCK//IN and the VCT Masters Tokyo in the same year – a feat never achieved before. With his international experience, Derke is ready to bring his strategic vision and talent to the team.

Felipe “Less” Basso (Brazilian) – 19 years old: A true VALORANT prodigy, Less quickly gained attention with his excellent mechanics and superhuman reflexes. At the age of 17, he won the VALORANT Champions in 2022 and the VCT Americas League in 2023 and is considered one of the best players in his role as Sentinel.

Daniel “Faded” Hwang (American) – 30 years as Head Coach: Faded has already coached within the TSM organisation and qualified for Ascension Finals in Mexico – all in his first year as a head coach! He has proven himself capable of developing talent and achieving exceptional results.

The new 2025 roster now stands as:

Kimmie “Kicks” Lassner
Saif “Sayf” Jibraeel (IGL)
Nikita “trexx” Cherednichenko
Nikita “Derke” Sirmitev
Felipe “Less” Basso

For this new season, the talented Sayf has taken on the key role of IGL within the team. Elected duelist of the 2024 season in VCT, Sayf will have the important task of leading his team to victory.

With the arrival of two additional superstars to the team, Team Vitality sends a strong message: VALORANT is a priority for the club. While the VALORANT Champions will take place in Paris, the club’s homeland, Team Vitality hopes to make an impression at home.

“VALORANT is a vital scene for us. We were keen to strengthen the existing team with even more experienced profiles as we seek performance and aim for excellence. And this season is special: we hope to be able to defend our chances of victory at home, in Paris.” explains Fabien “Neo” Devide, President and co-founder of Team Vitality.

LEGACY CAMPAIGN: AN ICE & FIRE ROSTER [CHAPTER 1]

Team Vitality is embarking on this new season with a clear and unwavering ambition: to write a new legacy on a key FPS game and shine at the VALORANT Paris Champions. To support this, Team Vitality is launching LEGACY, a campaign that will follow the team in three key chapters until the Champions next September.

https://x.com/TeamVitalityVAL/status/1879931306143887621

The first chapter of this campaign begins at the Bangkok Masters on February 27th and will notably feature the two new stars of the team. The campaign will play on the elements of the roster: Derke, a Finnish player, known for his exemplary composure, embodies serenity and concentration. Less, a Brazilian player, with an explosive style of play, flamboyant actions and an energy capable of igniting his teammates. Together, they symbolise a complementarity of qualities essential for the roster’s goal of reaching the top.

VCT BUNDLE VITALITY: PLAY LIKE LESS OR DERKE!

Team Vitality is proud to announce that its official VCT bundle is now available for purchase via the in-game shop. These exclusive bundles embody the club’s unique identity and allow fans to proudly wear Hive’s colours, while supporting the team in its quest for glory on the VALORANT scene.

Each piece has been carefully designed to reflect Team Vitality’s competitive spirit and boundless ambition.

https://x.com/TeamVitalityVAL/status/1876293118762315799

The post TEAM VITALITY PRESENTS ITS NEW ROSTER VALORANT THROUGH THE LEGACY CAMPAIGN appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.