Ciaran Henry appointed VP to enhance BetBlocker safer gambling

BetBlocker, a leading provider of gambling blocking software, has announced the appointment of Ciaran Henry as vice president of user experience. Henry, who previously served as a safer gambling consultant for Deal Me Out, will focus on improving the charity’s user support systems and enhancing accessibility across its platform.

This strategic appointment comes as BetBlocker continues to experience substantial growth, reaching over 300,000 registered users at the end of 2025. The organisation has also expanded its offerings to include support in French, Italian and Arabic, reflecting a concerted effort to reach users beyond the United Kingdom and Europe, particularly in the United States.

BetBlocker’s role in promoting safer gambling

Founded with a commitment to providing tools that protect individuals from harmful gambling, BetBlocker offers software that restricts access to gambling platforms across multiple devices, including desktops, smartphones and tablets. The software allows users to set limits or block access entirely, helping individuals and families manage gambling behaviour more effectively.

As the use of online gambling platforms grows worldwide, so does the need for effective blocking and support systems. BetBlocker’s software has gained recognition for its user-centric approach, offering accessible solutions while maintaining privacy and user autonomy. The charity reports that its user base has grown steadily since its launch, with the surge in 2025 highlighting the increasing demand for responsible gambling tools.

Expansion and language accessibility

The addition of French, Italian and Arabic support in 2025 underscores BetBlocker’s commitment to accessibility. By offering multilingual services, the organisation seeks to reach a wider audience, particularly in regions where gambling support services may be limited or less accessible.

Duncan Garvie, founder and trustee of BetBlocker, stated, “I'm really excited to welcome Ciaran Henry onto the BetBlocker team. I'm confident that he will be an asset that will help us grow and improve.” The emphasis on international growth reflects BetBlocker’s vision to provide effective safer gambling tools on a global scale while addressing the unique challenges faced by users in different linguistic and cultural contexts.

Ciaran Henry’s role and expertise

Ciaran Henry brings extensive experience in safer gambling practices and user engagement to BetBlocker. During his tenure with Deal Me Out, Henry focused on advising operators on responsible gambling initiatives and providing guidance on user interaction strategies that promote safety and well-being.

A BetBlocker spokesperson commented, “With the massive growth we've seen in user numbers in 2025 and no signs of that growth diminishing, streamlining our user support processes has become a critical objective. Ciaran will lead those efforts for our team. His confident and compassionate approach alongside a deep knowledge of managing user interactions will be a sufficient asset for the project.”

Henry’s appointment is expected to strengthen BetBlocker’s approach to user support, ensuring that the growing number of individuals seeking safer gambling solutions can receive timely and effective assistance. His experience in consulting on safer gambling policies positions him to provide strategic guidance while maintaining a user-focused approach.

Enhancing user support systems

As the organisation continues to grow, the need for robust user support systems has become a central priority. BetBlocker aims to refine its support processes to offer faster response times, personalised guidance and improved accessibility for users across multiple devices and languages.

The charity’s user support strategy includes technical assistance, guidance on installing and configuring software and resources for individuals and families impacted by gambling-related issues. By appointing a dedicated vice president of user experience, BetBlocker is signalling its commitment to professionalising and centralising support operations to better serve its expanding user base.

The significance of user experience in safer gambling

User experience is a critical component of effective gambling prevention tools. Software that is difficult to use or navigate can undermine its intended purpose, reducing compliance and engagement. By focusing on the user experience, BetBlocker aims to ensure that its platform remains intuitive, accessible and responsive to the needs of diverse users.

Ciaran Henry’s role will include assessing user feedback, analysing patterns of engagement and implementing improvements that simplify access to blocking features. This work is particularly important as BetBlocker extends its services internationally, where users may encounter different cultural norms, device preferences and regulatory requirements.

Global expansion and US market opportunities

The addition of multilingual support is part of BetBlocker’s broader international strategy. While the UK remains its core market, the United States represents a significant opportunity for safer gambling tools, given the expanding online gambling industry and evolving regulatory landscape.

BetBlocker’s technology, which blocks access to gambling operators across devices, is well-positioned to meet the demand for preventative tools in regions with growing digital gambling adoption. The organisation’s proactive approach to accessibility and user support demonstrates its commitment to responsible gambling on a global scale.

Collaboration with stakeholders and the community

Beyond technology, BetBlocker emphasises collaboration with stakeholders, including gambling operators, regulatory authorities and community organisations. By sharing expertise and engaging in dialogue, the charity seeks to strengthen collective efforts to reduce gambling-related harm.

Henry’s appointment aligns with this collaborative approach. His prior experience as a consultant involved liaising with operators and supporting community initiatives, which will be beneficial as BetBlocker continues to expand its partnerships and outreach programs.

Future outlook and organisational priorities

Looking ahead, BetBlocker intends to maintain a focus on both technological innovation and human-centred support. The charity’s priorities include:

• Improving user accessibility and interface design
• Expanding multilingual support to additional regions
• Enhancing user support responsiveness and effectiveness
• Strengthening partnerships with operators and community organisations
• Increasing awareness of gambling risks and available preventative tools

By appointing a vice president of user experience, BetBlocker is reinforcing its commitment to these priorities, ensuring that growth is accompanied by high standards of user support and accessibility.

Statements from leadership

Duncan Garvie emphasised the importance of the appointment, noting that Henry’s expertise and approach make him well-suited to support the organisation’s growth: “I'm really excited to welcome Ciaran Henry onto the BetBlocker team. I'm confident that he will be an asset that will help us grow and improve.”

A spokesperson added, “With the massive growth we've seen in user numbers in 2025 and no signs of that growth diminishing, streamlining our user support processes has become a critical objective. Ciaran will lead those efforts for our team. His confident and compassionate approach alongside a deep knowledge of managing user interactions will be a sufficient asset for the project.”

These statements underline BetBlocker’s commitment to professionalism, accessibility and responsible governance in its operations.

Conclusion

The appointment of Ciaran Henry as vice president of user experience represents a strategic step for BetBlocker as it navigates a period of significant growth and international expansion. By focusing on user support, accessibility and multilingual services, the organisation is positioning itself as a leading provider of safer gambling solutions.

Henry’s expertise in safer gambling consulting and user engagement will be instrumental in enhancing the effectiveness of BetBlocker’s platform. The organisation’s emphasis on compassionate, user-focused support reflects a broader commitment to promoting responsible gambling practices worldwide.

As BetBlocker continues to grow, its focus on technology, accessibility and international outreach will remain central to its mission of reducing gambling-related harm and supporting individuals and families in managing gambling behaviour effectively.

FAQs

Who is Ciaran Henry and what role does he play at BetBlocker?
Ciaran Henry is the vice president of user experience at BetBlocker, focusing on improving user support and accessibility.

What is BetBlocker and what services does it offer?
BetBlocker is a gambling blocking software provider that allows users to restrict access to gambling platforms across multiple devices.

Why was Ciaran Henry appointed to BetBlocker?
Henry was appointed to lead user support initiatives, leveraging his experience as a safer gambling consultant to enhance user experience.

How many users does BetBlocker have?
As of the end of 2025, BetBlocker has over 300,000 registered users.

Which languages does BetBlocker support?
BetBlocker supports English, French, Italian and Arabic, reflecting its expansion to international markets.

What are the main priorities for BetBlocker in 2026?
Key priorities include improving user accessibility, expanding multilingual support, enhancing support responsiveness and strengthening partnerships.

How does BetBlocker contribute to safer gambling?
By providing software that blocks access to gambling platforms and offering user support, BetBlocker helps prevent gambling-related harm.

What experience does Ciaran Henry bring to BetBlocker?
Henry has experience in safer gambling consulting and user interaction management from his work with Deal Me Out.

Why is user experience important for BetBlocker?
An intuitive and accessible user experience ensures that users can effectively use the software to manage gambling behaviour.

Is BetBlocker expanding internationally?
Yes, BetBlocker is expanding to the United States and other regions, supported by multilingual services and enhanced user support systems.