Community lottery set to raise more than £1k for MS

The Devizes Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group is expected to raise almost £1,100 in its first year through the Wiltshire Community Lottery.

The funding will help the group continue supporting people living with MS, alongside their families, friends and carers.

Becky Thomas, lead for the Devizes MS Group, said: “The money raised helps us continue providing a welcoming and supportive group for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis.”

The group holds monthly meetings and organises informal social gatherings at local pubs and cafés.

It is also campaigning to improve accessibility for people with disabilities.

Thomas said: “We are also actively campaigning for better accessibility for people with MS and other disabilities, working with Devizes Town Council and local Healthwatch to help make a positive difference in our community.”

Thanking lottery supporters, she added: “Your support really does make a difference, helping us continue our work, raise awareness, and give people affected by MS a voice in our local community.”

The Wiltshire Community Lottery allows charities, clubs and community groups to raise funds through a weekly online draw.

For every £1 ticket purchased, 50p goes directly to the chosen organisation, while another 10p goes towards a central fund supporting wider community projects.

The first draw took place in June 2026, and more than 175 local groups have joined the scheme.

These include grassroots sports teams, village hall committees, lunch clubs, advice groups and youth clubs.

The lottery is projected to raise an additional £58,000 this year for organisations already registered.

Councillor Mel Jacob, deputy leader of Wiltshire Council and cabinet member for communities, said: “We are delighted that local good causes have embraced the Wiltshire Community Lottery and, in just a few months, it’s already proving to be a valuable way to raise funds that can be invested directly into our local communities.”

“It’s inspiring to hear how the funding is supporting local people, and I wish Devizes MS all the best in their efforts and thank them for the difference they are making.”

The lottery is managed by Gatherwell, an external operator working with more than 150 local authorities across the UK.