“It’s a fabulous initiative that is helping local charities” 

These are words in support of Wiltshire Council’s Community Lottery from a local group in Devizes, one of many good causes raising vital extra money through the scheme. 

The Devizes MS (multiple sclerosis) Support Group decided to join the Wiltshire Community Lottery to help raise much-needed extra funds for the group, while also raising awareness of the support it provides. Alongside its own fundraising efforts through quiz nights, plant sales and collections, the lottery gives the group another opportunity to generate regular income and reach more people. Through the lottery alone, the group is on track to raise almost £1,100 in its first year. 

Becky Thomas, Lead for Devizes MS Group, said: “The money raised helps us continue providing a welcoming and supportive group for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis. We currently hold monthly meetings and enjoy getting together socially during the month, whether that’s at a local pub or café. We are also actively campaigning for better accessibility for people with MS and other disabilities, working with Devizes Town Council and local Healthwatch to help make a positive difference in our community. 

 “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has joined our cause through the lottery. Your support really does make a difference, helping us continue our work, raise awareness, and give people affected by MS a voice in our local community.” 

Cllr Mel Jacob, Wiltshire Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We are delighted that local good causes have embraced the Wiltshire Community Lottery and, in just a few months, it’s already proving to be a valuable way to raise funds that can be invested directly into our local communities. 

“It’s inspiring to hear how the funding is supporting local people, and I wish Devizes MS all the best in their efforts and thank them for the difference they are making.” 

The first Wiltshire Community Lottery draw took place in June and, so far, more than 175 local good causes are taking part. The lottery offers local clubs, charities, and community groups a simple and effective way to raise money through a weekly online draw. 

For every £1 lottery ticket bought, 50p goes directly to the player’s chosen good cause, with a further 10p going to a central fund, which Wiltshire Council will reinvest into local good causes. People can buy up to 20 tickets per week for a chance to win prizes of up to £25,000. 

Current projections suggest the scheme could generate an additional £58k this year for the organisations that have registered to take part so far. 

 Wiltshire Council launched the community lottery to help local organisations secure vital funding and continue the valuable work they do in communities across the county. A wide range of organisations have already signed up, including grassroots sports teams, village hall committees, lunch clubs, advice groups and youth clubs. 

Local clubs, groups, charities, and community organisations interested in raising money through the lottery can find out more about the eligibility criteria and register by visiting the Wiltshire Community Lottery website at www.wiltshirecommunitylottery.co.uk.

Tickets can be purchased via the Wiltshire Community Lottery website or by calling 03000 168 861. The next draw is due to take place on 7 November 2026. There is also a Super Draw taking place on 28 November which not only means people can raise money for good causes by buying tickets, but they will also have the opportunity to win a PS5 Pro gaming bundle or a £1,000, courtesy of Gatherwell. More details at www.wiltshirecommunitylottery.co.uk.

The council has partnered with Gatherwell, a licensed and regulated External Lottery Manager that already delivers community lotteries for more than 150 local authorities and Community and Voluntary Services across the country. Local good causes can sign up anytime and begin their fundraising journey through the Wiltshire Community Lottery. 

The Wiltshire Community Lottery fully complies with the Gambling Act 2005. Support is available for anyone affected by gambling-related harm via the Wiltshire Community Lottery website. Information on support services, training opportunities and resources relating to gambling harm is also available on the Wiltshire Council website at https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/13149/Gambling-harm.

Players must be 18 or over and physically located in Great Britain.

Players are asked to always play responsibly, if anyone needs to talk to someone about their gambling they should please contact Gamble Aware.