TSB Bank is working with youth gambling charity Ygam to help young people combat financial risks they face when playing games online.

Nearly half of 2,000 young gamers surveyed by the bank say they “have little or no control over their spending” while playing.

The bank also found that while the average game costs £32, gamers are spending on average £540 annually on in-game purchases and subscriptions.

The bank and Ygam will deliver specialist resources for schools to run sessions warning pupils of the dangers around spending while playing.

This aims to offer practical guidance to young people on managing their money and understanding the risks.

“Gaming is often one of young people’s first interactions with spending or managing their money digitally; so we’re pleased to be working with Ygam to reach young people with targeted advice,” said TSB’s head of responsible business Kate Osiadacz.

“We’re keen help empower the next generation to make informed decisions for their financial lives ahead.”

Ygam director of programmes Linda Scollins Smith added: “Gaming now plays a central role in young people’s lives, offering significant benefits.

“However, it is always important to safeguard against the risks, and the increasing sophistication of game monetisation through microtransactions and in-game purchases underscores the need for education on this issue.

“We are delighted to be working with TSB to support their school programmes, combining financial education with gaming education, to help young gamers develop healthy habits and navigate the digital world safely.”

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