Rangers Football Club has hosted bespoke gambling education sessions, becoming the first club in Scotland to do so.

These sessions were tailored specifically for top-level athletes with the aim of fostering a healthy relationship with the gambling industry.

Conducted by Epic Global Solutions, an independent gambling harm minimisation consultancy, the program drew on the lived experience of former professional athletes to educate participants on managing their relationship with gambling safely.

Held in an open environment, the sessions encouraged all participants – including the men’s first team, women’s team and selected academy squads – to share their experiences and perspectives.

Funding for this initiative came from principal club sponsor Kindred. In celebration of a decade-long partnership with Rangers, Kindred has also dedicated its front-of-shirt sponsorship to its “Zero % Mission”, aiming to eliminate revenue derived from harmful gambling practices.

Regarding the event, Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland commented: “Any addiction can dramatically affect your life, your family’s life and ultimately your career as well.

“That’s why it is so important that the club is taking this seriously and offering this support, and why it’s great to work with Epic and Kindred on this.“

Carolanne Gay, Academy Education Executive at Rangers Football Club, added: “It is important to all at the club to take the lead on this matter.

“We realised the importance of working with sector experts to better educate and safeguard players and staff at all levels. We’re grateful to Kindred and Epic for their support and guidance, and we hope that the sessions will be of great benefit in the future.”