29 July 2020
Share this story
Charity founder and former round the world yachtswoman, Dame Ellen MacArthur, has welcomed the boost to local and national charities resulting from the change in the charity lottery sales limits – which come into force today, Wednesday 29 July.
Further to legislation passed in March, the charity lottery annual sales limit today increases to £50 million, allowing charity lotteries to raise more for good causes, reduce administration costs and cut bureaucracy. The new limit replaces the outdated £10 million limit which had been in place since 2005. The change in the law was backed by Parliamentarians across the political spectrum and by many charities across the country.
The change also means the annual funding available for smaller, local charities, from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, will more than double, from around £9 million to over £20 million.
Commenting on the changes, Dame Ellen MacArthur, said: "I have seen first-hand the real difference funding raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery can make. Support from players has furthered the important work of my charities – The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, and enabled so many others, large and small to continue playing their vital roles.
"I am pleased that these changes will allow more money to reach good causes and increase the difference they make to people and society."
Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage Nigel Huddleston said: "This change will mean more money is raised for deserving charities and that help and support can reach those who need it.
"Players of People's Postcode Lottery have an important role in raising millions for good causes and I'd like to acknowledge their vital contributions."
Clara Govier, Managing Director of People’s Postcode Lottery, added: "Today is the result of years of consultation, debate and collaboration and is a cause for celebration for charities and good causes everywhere.
"Without the backing of charity partners, and notable cross-party support, securing these changes would not have been possible.
"Our focus now is to ensure the increased funds have the biggest possible impact. Each year, players of People’s Postcode Lottery raise millions of pounds, benefitting thousands of good causes working to cut poverty, tackle isolation, improve health and well-being, and much more. This change will now let us do even more for the good causes players support."
Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised more than £500 million for 7,500 charities and good causes, since 2005.