Sheffield Mind Gambling Awareness Evaluation

About the Client 

The Gambling Awareness Project Sheffield (GAPS), launched in 2022, was a two-year pilot programme led by Sheffield Mind in partnership with the Gambling Commission.

Aimed at protecting young people (ages 11-25) from the risks of gambling-related harm, this initiative explored innovative ways to inform, engage, and support at-risk individuals. The challenges faced by youth, ranging from financial strain to addiction, highlight the urgent need for proactive education and prevention. 

Our Role and Approach

ResPeo was commissioned by Sheffield Mind to carry out an independent evaluation of GAPS.

We conducted a mixed methods summative evaluation of the programme, which informed a narrative report that aimed to help Sheffield Mind understand the successes and challenges of the programme.

This involved managing pre-existing secondary data, which included metrics from awareness sessions, outreach activities, and online engagement. Additionally, we designed a confidential staff survey to capture deeper insights into the pilot's effectiveness.

Key Results and Outcomes

Some key strengths of the programme included the person-centred design of the learning and information sessions for both professionals, and children and young people. Participants perceived the sessions as inclusive and adaptive to their learning and informational needs, with effective engagement and contributions from Experts by Experience.

Areas for further development included improved marketing of the GAPS club to increase uptake rates and leveraging the established online engagement through the website.