Animal charities backed by lottery drive

A non-profit initiative is aiming to transform fundraising for animal welfare organisations as rising costs and demand put increasing pressure on the sector.

The Animal Lottery Foundation has been launched as a community interest company to support shelters and rescue centres across Britain by providing access to lottery-based fundraising. 

Acting as an intermediary, the foundation enables charities to benefit from this model without needing to independently register with the Gambling Commission.

Founded by Chris Bray, former chief executive of Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter, the organisation builds on a proven approach. 

During his tenure, the shelter’s lottery scheme grew into a significant income stream, generating more than £250,000 annually and highlighting the wider potential for the sector.

The launch comes at a challenging time for animal welfare charities, with rising employment costs, increased demand for services and growing financial pressures. 

Pet abandonments across England and Wales have surged in recent years, leaving many organisations stretched while traditional fundraising methods such as events and community activities become more difficult to sustain.

The Animal Lottery Foundation aims to address these challenges by offering a scalable and accessible funding solution. 

Through its model, participating charities can access a new source of income without requiring upfront investment or specialist expertise.

By distributing grant funding directly to animal welfare causes, the foundation is designed to create a more sustainable financial footing for organisations that are often operating with limited resources, helping them continue delivering essential services to communities across the UK.

Chris said: “It is a very tough time for animal welfare charities at present raising funds with the cost-of-living crisis. 

“The Animal Lottery Foundation is an exciting development which uses the expertise that has built up in digital lotteries where there is big support for animal welfare. 

“These funds can then be distributed as grants to charities to continue delivering on their mission.”

To find out more about the Animal Lottery Foundation, click here.

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