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Running a Raffle or Sweepstake

A simple guide to help you fundraise safely and legally.

What you need to know

Raffles and sweepstakes are a great way to raise money with minimal costs. However, they are regulated activities, so it’s important to understand the rules before you get started.

This guide gives a simple overview to help you stay within the law. If you are unsure about anything, please contact us at fundraising@st-gemma.co.uk.

What counts as a lottery?

 

Raffles and sweepstakes are both types of lotteries. According to the Gambling Commission, a lottery has three key elements:

  1. You have to pay to enter
  2. There is at least one prize
  3. Winners are chosen entirely by chance

If your activity includes all three, it must follow lottery regulations.

 

Important: Your responsibility

If you choose to run a raffle or sweepstake in aid of St Gemma’s Hospice:

  • You are responsible for ensuring it is run legally and safely
  • You must comply with all relevant laws and regulations
  • St Gemma’s Hospice cannot take responsibility for your activity

We’re always happy to offer guidance, but the organiser is responsible for the event.

Raffles (Incidental Lotteries)

You can run a raffle without a licence only if it is part of an event (for example, a quiz night or fundraising evening). This is known as an incidental lottery.

Key rules

  • Tickets can only be sold during the event and at the event location
  • You must not sell tickets online or in advance
  • All tickets must be the same price (no bulk discounts)
  • You must clearly state when the draw will take place
  • The draw can take place during or after the event

Tickets

  • You can use cloakroom-style tickets
  • Each ticket must clearly identify the entrant

Prizes and expenses

  • All prizes must be awarded (no rollovers or leftovers)
  • Winners must be chosen entirely by chance
  • Maximum deductions:
    • You can deduct reasonable expenses, up to a maximum of £100
    • The total value of prizes must not exceed £500

Sweepstakes

Sweepstakes are more limited in where they can take place.

Key rules

  • Must be run within a single workplace or club
  • All participants must be on the same premises
  • You must not run sweepstakes online or via social media

Games like “guess the sweets” or “spot the ball”

  • Decide the correct answer before entries open
  • Keep it recorded and secure until the result is revealed

Public Raffles

If you want to sell tickets to the general public (outside of an event), you must:

  • Register with your local authority
  • Follow all regulations set by the Gambling Commission

St Gemma’s Hospice cannot provide a licence for public raffles.

Further guidance

For full legal guidance, please visit the Gambling Commission and Fundraising Regulator.

Need help?

If you have any questions or want to sense-check your plans, we’re here to help. Just email us at fundraising@st-gemma.co.uk