National Lottery Good Causes: ‘Fund What Matters to You’ call for evidence
8th July 2026
The Government has launched a 12-week call for evidence that will ask the public to help shape the future of National Lottery funding in the UK. Communities across the UK are being encouraged to have their say on where their contribution goes, helping to make sure every pound reaches the communities that need it most.
Since the very first draw in 1994, The National Lottery has generated more than £53 billion for good causes, funding everything from Olympic and Paralympic champions and iconic institutions to local youth clubs and community halls.
Now, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has announced a 12-week call for evidence that will ask the public to help shape the future of National Lottery funding in the UK.
With The National Lottery operator Allwyn committed to doubling funding for good causes from £30 million to £60 million a week by 2034, the Government believes now is the right time for the public to have more of a say in where their contribution goes, helping to make sure every pound reaches the communities that need it most.
“The National Lottery is played by millions of people every single week. It is not just public money, it is literally the public’s money, and they must be in the driving seat of how it is spent. But for two decades no government has asked people how they want their money to be spent. Decisions are made hundreds of miles from communities who know best and favour larger organisations who can meet the needs of the system, rather than bending the system to work for the small, grassroots organisations who are the lifeblood of our communities. This Government is determined that will change. With this consultation we are bringing people back into the conversation. They will write the next chapter in the story of the National Lottery and of our country.”
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy
“This is an important opportunity to ensure that funding from The National Lottery continues to reflect what matters most to people in our villages, our towns and our cities. Over the past three decades, The National Lottery has made a permanent, positive change to the whole country. It’s been the power behind the success of sport, culture, heritage, film and community projects across the UK. This is everyone’s chance to highlight the vital role of The National Lottery and its players in our public life.”
Arts Council England’s Chief Executive Darren Henley, and chair of the UK National Lottery Forum