James Grimes, from Chapter One, said: “People often say that we now have casinos in our pockets.
“The truth is that young people from the age of 18 in Bradford, and elsewhere, can access these really addictive products with some safeguards.
“But not enough, and definitely not enough warnings about what might happen if things go wrong.”
The 36-year-old began gambling when he was 16 after he placed his first bet with a bookmakers and had a 12-year addiction, including using online sites.
He said: “Anyone can be harmed by gambling and not all gambling is the same.
“It’s the stuff that’s really accessible, that’s really quick.
“You’ll probably notice that there are these new 24-hour slot venues where you can go in and play these really fast-paced, addictive slot machines any time of the day.
“I would say to any young person who is worried about gambling, or struggling with gambling, please don’t think this makes you a bad or weak person.
“This is not your own fault. There is plenty of help and support available for you.”
Bradford district has a potential 16,283 adults at risk of, or experiencing, gambling-related harm, according to Chapter One, which is part of the Gambling with Lives charity, while an estimated 10,302 children live in the same household as an adult who may have support needs.