Could your raffle or game of chance be breaking the law?
Many of us want to raise money for a good cause or charity. As human beings we want to help others. What seems like the easiest way is holding a raffle, choosing a square or other game of chance. We will often see these advertised on social media or friends will tell us. Do you know the laws surrounding this?
The law is simple. The only way you can lawfully do this kind of fundraising is by doing it in the following ways:
1. An incidental lottery – these must be held at an event (either commercial or noncommercial).Participants buy tickets or pay to take part on the day of the event examples include; a charity dinner, exhibition, festival, fete.
2. Private lottery – there are three types:
(a) Private society lottery where only members of the society or club and those on the society premises can take part.
(b) Work lottery – where only people who work together on the same premises can take part.
(c) Residents’ lottery – where only people who live at the same premises can take part.
Anything else that does not fit in with the two points above where chance plays a part in what you win will mean you getting a Gambling Licence from the Gambling Commission or from the Local Authority.
Going outside the law doesn’t just mean breaking the law but it can leave the person doing the raffle open to others making unfounded accusations.
Of course we all want to raise vital money for a cause but let’s do it within the law! If in doubt check with your Local Authority.
Could your raffle or game of chance be breaking the law?
alisoncrossjones 