East Lothian MP supports review of National Lottery funding distribution

East Lothian MP Douglas Alexander has welcomed the UK Government’s Call for Evidence, which aims to give communities a greater say in how National Lottery funding is allocated across the country.

The consultation invites individuals, charities, and community groups to help shape the future of good cause funding to reflect “modern priorities,” target areas of greatest need, and remove barriers for smaller grassroots organisations.

Mr Alexander said: “The National Lottery has made a real difference to communities across East Lothian, supporting the clubs, organisations and local projects that bring people together and help our communities thrive.

“This Labour Government believes the funding raised by National Lottery players should reflect the priorities of the people who contribute to it.

“That means giving local communities a genuine voice over how funding is spent, ensuring it reaches the places that need it most, and making it easier for smaller organisations to access the support they deserve.

“For too long, too many grassroots organisations have been held back by unnecessary bureaucracy and a system that can feel remote from the communities it serves.

“Labour is turning that around by putting communities back at the centre of decision-making.

“I would encourage local residents, charities and community organisations across the Lothian East constituency to take part in the consultation and help shape the future of one of our great national institutions.”

National Lottery funding has supported more than 680,000 projects since 1994, raising over £53 billion to date.

The consultation focuses on three core aims: “Fund What Matters to You,” “Empower Your Communities,” and “Simplify Access.”

It seeks to put communities at the centre of funding decisions, reduce administrative barriers, and ensure public input guides future support.

The Government has emphasised that good cause funding from the Lottery should complement—not replace—public spending, while amplifying the impact of community-led priorities.

The consultation will also explore how to; better reflect local community priorities, give people greater influence over what gets funded, cut down on bureaucracy for grassroots groups, target funding toward areas of highest need, and protect the National Lottery for future generations while maximising its impact across the UK.

The review is part of Labour’s wider Plan for Change and aims to ensure the National Lottery continues to strengthen communities and deliver opportunities across the country.

The consultation remains open until noon on September 23, and welcomes input from individuals, charities, voluntary organisations, community groups, local authorities, and stakeholders throughout the UK.

Responses can be submitted online through the government website under “National Lottery Good Causes: Fund what matters to you.”