Gaming/Gambling Harms and Inequalities: The Experiences of Diverse and Marginalised Communities (Ref: YGAM-25-LU)

The PhD will take a social sciences approach to examine underlying social and economic inequalities potentially leading to gaming/gambling harm, with a specific focus on diverse and marginalized groups. There is a growing need to support diverse and often marginalized communities with gaming/gambling harm, for example religious groups; SE Asian and Black African communities; and Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish Travellers. Previous evidence has identified that these groups are often at a higher risk of such harms (i.e. access to healthcare; stigma). This research seeks to i) examine the experiences of individuals from these groups with gaming/gambling; ii) identify underlying inequalities and potential early risk factors; iii) explore other barriers and challenges for individuals from these communities, including cultural factors related to gaming and gambling. The PhD project would ideally utilize a mixed methods approach.

This PhD is jointly funded by Loughborough University and the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM). This research seeks to inform YGAM’s practice (i.e. training, education and resources). YGAM currently lead a programme designed for community and faith leaders to raise awareness and address these issues. However, this PhD is not an impact evaluation of this programme. Rather, YGAM uses independent and commissioned research and evidence to inform their practice, and in this case, there is a focus on prevention and underlying factors, which should have the potential for wider stakeholder engagement (i.e. education; health services). There are clear pathways to impact embedded into the PhD programme, including interim meetings with an industrial supervisor at YGAM every 6 months.

Supervisors

• Primary Supervisor: Prof Sarah Mills
• Secondary Supervisor: Prof Line Nyhagen

Entry requirements

Applicants must have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in the major subject of their research field, or in a related subject. Ideally, an academic background and qualification(s) in the social sciences. A relevant Masters degree would be advantageous. Candidates must have a 2:1 honours degree regardless of any further qualifications they have.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and funding

50% external partner matched with 50% University. The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus tuition fees at the UK rate. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees

How to apply

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Geography (Human and Social). Please quote the advertised reference number YGAM-25-LU in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents. For this project, please also submit 1) A CV; 2) A 3-page max research proposal that outlines the candidate’s vision for the project including research aim and questions, situating these within relevant academic debates and literature, project details and proposed research methods, including feasibility of study.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

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