BetBlocker, a UK and US-based charity, has expanded its free gambling management app to include Serbian language support, in collaboration with Gamblers Connect.
Key Takeaways:
- BetBlocker now offers its gambling management app in Serbian
- Collaboration with Gamblers Connect enables wider language accessibility
- Move aims to address problem gambling concerns in Serbian-speaking communities
Expanding Language Accessibility
BetBlocker, known for its free and anonymous gambling management support services, has taken a significant step in its targeted language provision program. The charity has launched a Serbian language version of its app, marking another milestone in its mission to provide native language support for users worldwide.
This expansion comes at a crucial time, as a 2018 study published in International Gambling Studies revealed that 0.5% of participants in Serbia met the criteria for problem gambling, with sports betting being a particular area of concern.
Reaching Millions of Serbian Speakers
The new Serbian language support opens up BetBlocker’s services to over 7 million Serbian speakers in Serbia and an estimated 3 million elsewhere. This move is part of BetBlocker’s ongoing efforts to reduce friction in accessing gambling management tools and to cater to users in their first language.
Affiliate Collaboration for Responsible Gambling
The launch of the Serbian version was made possible through a collaboration with Gamblers Connect, an affiliate website that provided pro bono translation services. This partnership highlights a growing trend of cooperation between affiliates and responsible gambling initiatives.
Gjorgje Ristikj, Founder of Gamblers Connect, commented on the collaboration: “I’m glad to see our collaboration with BetBlocker continuing in such a positive and impactful way. Launching the Serbian version is a meaningful step forward, and we’re proud to support responsible gambling initiatives that truly make a difference.”
Impact on the Gambling Industry
Duncan Garvie, Founder and Trustee of BetBlocker, emphasized the significance of this development: “For me, this project is a win for everyone! Obviously it’s great news for Serbian gamblers that BetBlocker is now available in their language. Servia doesn’t currently have the range of support options for people looking to stop or manage their gambling, so this is a substantial step forwards in terms of harm minimisation.”
Garvie also highlighted the importance of affiliate involvement in responsible gambling initiatives: “The affiliate sector has been substantially under-engaged when it comes to messaging around safer gambling. And affiliates are expert communicators. No-one knows how to communicate a message to players better than affiliates. To have Gamblers Connect work with us on this project sets a fantastic example for the entire affiliate sector. One we hope will foster greater cooperation between charities and affiliates in future.”
This collaboration between BetBlocker and Gamblers Connect sets a precedent for future partnerships between gambling affiliates and responsible gambling organizations. It demonstrates how the affiliate sector can contribute to player protection while maintaining its role in the online gambling ecosystem.
As the online gambling industry continues to evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in ensuring that players have access to the tools they need to manage their gambling habits, regardless of their language or location.
