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ARTICLE · 23 APRIL 2026

Fundraising Regulator Holds Consultation On Free Draw Operators

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The Fundraising Regulator has launched a consultation proposing new registration thresholds for free draw operators, requiring them to contribute 20% of ticket sales to charity—matching society lottery standards. These proposed changes follow the Government's publication of a Voluntary Code of Good Practice for Prize Draw Operators and could significantly impact how charitable free draws operate in the UK.

United KingdomConsumer Protection
Chris Priestley
Chris Priestley
Philip Reed
Philip Reed
Roger Waite
Roger Waite
Alana Petraske
Alana Petraske
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The Fundraising Regulator has held a consultation on introducing registration thresholds for charitable contributions from free draw and prize competition operators.

Currently, free draws are distinct form other forms of charitable games, such as society lotteries, and so are not subject to the same legal requirement around charitable contributions.

The consultation asked respondents to comment on two proposals:

  1. That the Fundraising Regulator should introduce thresholds from free draw operators who seek to register with the Regulator. The threshold will eventually rise to 20% of ticket sales (in line with the level expected of society lotteries); and
  2. That free draw operators will be required to demonstrate their levels of charitable contribution for the last 12 months upon registration and renewal of any registration.

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