National Lottery Good Causes: Fund what matters to you

On 1 July 2026 (under the Starmer Government), the Department for Culture, Media and Sport launched an open call for evidence titled 'National Lottery Good Causes: Fund what matters to you'.

They want to hear from groups, individuals and organisations to find out what matters to communities across the UK, and to see if the current format is working. 

Creative Lives, and many of the groups we support and champion, are funded through the Lottery in different ways. To help us draft a response to this crucial consultation, we are holding a Focus Group to explore the key themes that matter to creative groups across the UK.

If you're part of a creative group that has:

• Received Lottery funding
• Been turned down for Lottery funding
• Been put off trying for lottery funding

Either through the arts councils in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales, or through the National Lottery Heritage Fund or National Lottery Community Fund, we would be interested to hear your views. 

Our three main objectives during this online meeting will be to find out:

• How can the Lottery better support local and national priorities, and fund what is important to communities?
• How can the Lottery empower local communities?
• How can the application process be improved?

The session will be held by Creative Lives' Policy Director, Jess Plant.

Please do join us to make sure we reflect the hopes and concerns of creative groups across the UK.

Sign up for your free place below.