The bill aims to introduce legislation making it possible for large society lotteries to operate here in Northern Ireland, unlocking significant financial support for our local charities that they’re currently missing out on.

The North Antrim MLA has said: “No longer having access to EU funding, bearing the brunt of increasingly constrained public funding, and seeing more demand than ever as they pick up the pieces of a broken system fractured even further by the cost-of-living crisis, our charitable organisations provide invaluable services and deserve all the help we can give them.

“Large society lotteries have already proven to be highly successful in Great Britain and across Europe, raising millions in vital funds for good causes in local communities. This proposal aims to introduce legislation that would bring Northern Ireland into alignment with the rest of the UK and allow them to operate here as well.

“According to the Lotteries Council, in 2023 alone, society lotteries in GB contributed over £420 million to good causes. Currently, NI is the only UK region where organisations like hospices, sports teams, and local charities cannot raise equivalent funds through charity lotteries, creating a major funding gap.

“The current state of our lottery laws in Northern Ireland is a result of historical legislative decision-making and a cautious approach to reform which has allowed us to fall behind. It’s now time to finally make progress and uplift our charity and voluntary sector in the process. I’d encourage everyone to complete our consultation and let us know your views.”

Online consultation - https://www.allianceparty.org/lotteries_for_communities_bill