gaming
HUTCH ANNOUNCES PARTICIPATION IN 4 DAY WEEK UK PILOT PROGRAMME
The announcement sees the automotive game developer join the pilot with the aim of further improving wellbeing, sustainability and productivity within its global team
Hutch, the renowned automotive mobile game developer has announced its participation in a six-month trial of a four day working week. The trial, led by 4 Day Week Global, is set to run from June to December 2022 for all Hutch staff across their studios in London, Dundee and Nova Scotia.
Since its inception, Hutch has been a company committed to enabling its team to have the best possible work life balance. Founded by a leadership team who all experienced challenging working conditions at AAA games studios, Hutch sought to build itself with a ‘no-crunch’ culture in mind, with hybrid working as standard.
The trial of a four day working week this summer is part of an effort to further improve Hutch’s commitment to supporting its staff. The pilot programme sets out with the ambition of enhancing organisational productivity, sustainability and improving distribution of responsibility for parents and carers, alongside other advantages. This will be an insightful exercise to monitor the sentiment from Hutch’s team, where feedback will be gathered and assessed for objective review throughout the trial.
Hutch will be part of the pilot coordinated by 4 Day Week Global in partnership with the UK think tank Autonomy, the 4 Day Week UK Campaign and researchers at Cambridge University, Boston College and Oxford University.
Shaun Rutland, CEO of Hutch, said “When we started Hutch 10 years ago, enabling our team to have the best possible work life balance was a priority. We’ve had a decade of tweaking the way we work, and we think the four day work week supports our ethos for the future of Hutch. Joining the trial was, naturally, a perfect opportunity to empower Hutch even more. It has the potential to improve productivity and overall employee health, create stronger families and communities, and improve gender equality, to help create a more sustainable work environment.”
Charmaine St John, Head of People at Hutch, said “The 4 Day Week Pilot Programme is a fantastic initiative, and we’re delighted to be involved. It’s an excellent opportunity to offer Hutchies even more flexibility in their work life balance. The scheme will allow us to create a more energised and efficient workforce, as well as having a positive impact on gender equality by enabling a better distribution of caring responsibilities between parents.”
FreezeNova
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
Compliance Updates
SYNOT Games Officially Certifies Over 140 Games in Brazil
SYNOT Games has announced that more than 140 of its games have now been officially certified in Brazil.
“We are delighted to announce that more than 140 of our games have now been officially certified in Brazil. This significant achievement allows us to expand our reach and introduce a diverse selection of games to this dynamic market. Brazil represents a key opportunity for growth, and we are committed to delivering exceptional gaming experiences to the Brazilian audience,” the Company said.
“We are thrilled to introduce our portfolio in Brazil, offering innovative and engaging gameplay that promises to captivate and entertain players,” Martina Krajci, CCO at SYNOT Games, said.
gaming
SPGA Introduces Code of Conduct to Highlight Member Commitment to Compliance and Safety in Social and Promotional Gaming
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Proper identity verification (Know Your Customer or KYC)
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Location verification of customers
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