Those involved in fundraising for good causes often organise events involving types of gambling as a means to raise money. Typical fundraising activities that involve gambling include:
- Lotteries (such as raffles and tombolas).
- Race nights.
- Casino nights.
- Bingo.
Gambling laws allows most such gambling activities to be provided on a non-commercial basis, without the need for permission from the local authority or the Gambling Commission, provided that relevant rules are followed.
Lotteries
A simple advice leaflet on running a lottery, including raffles, tombolas and sweepstakes has been produced by the pdf Gambling Commission - Basic advice on running lotteries (258 KB) .
Download a more detailed guide on running small lotteries: pdf Gambling Commission – Organising small lotteries (238 KB) .
If your lottery cannot be run in such a way as to fall within the definition of an exempt lottery you may decide to register with us to provide Small society lotteries.
Race Nights, Casino Nights etc.
A simple advice leaflet on running a race night, casino night or similar event for a good cause has been produced by the pdf Gambling Commission – Can I hold a race night, casino night or poker night? (405 KB)
Bingo
pdf Organising Bingo for a good cause leaflet. (506 KB)
Further Information
Visit the pdf Gambling Commission (88 KB) for more detailed information on organising non-commercial prize gaming and non-commercial equal chance gaming, including any conditions that must be complied with.