UK Charity Commission closes case against YGAM

The UK Charity Commission has closed its regulatory case against the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) after finding zero grounds for further investigation. The Commission, which regulates the conduct of registered charities in the UK, was responding to a complaint made against YGAM that questioned the charity’s relationship with the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). The Commission initiated contact with YGAM to establish the basis of its relationship with the standards body, including a £10m payment to fund the Young People’s Gambling Harm Prevention Programme, which is administered by YGAM in collaboration with GamCare. However, the Charity Commission said following its discourse with YGAM that it was clear there would be no need to continue its investigation into the charity. The Commission noted: “It is reassuring to us that you have been able to explain the relationship with the Betting and Gaming Council as well as the written agreement in place with this organisation. “We are also satisfied that the charity has sufficient mechanisms in place to ensure there are no conflicts of interest and independence is maintained.” Reacting to the regulator’s decision, YGAM thanked the Commission for bringing a swift end to the matter. A YGAM spokesperson said: “We are pleased the Charity Commission have reached this conclusion so swiftly. Our engagement with the charities regulator was productive and provided an opportunity to present evidence to demonstrate independence and robust governance. “Our hard-working team continue to deliver our charitable objectives and increase our social impact through our award-winning education programmes.” A BGC spokesperson added: “The BGC and our members are proud to support the superb work being done by YGAM and GamCare through the Young People’s Gambling Harm Prevention Programme, which in its first year exceeded its targets for providing education for young people and training for those who work with them.”