Since the first Lotto draw in 1994, supporters have raised £49 billion for good causes, supporting 27,000 projects across the UK. As the National Lottery marks its 30th birthday, we want to say a huge thank you for helping us to empower lives and create amazing memories in the communities we serve.

This game-changing funding has helped us share iconic performances that break down barriers, unleash the creative potential of the next generation, and empower lives in our local communities — all through the power of music.

Iconic performances

When you buy a Lotto ticket, you are supporting iconic performances, such as our 2023 BBC Proms appearance with Felix Klieser and Kirill Karabits. Last year, we shared our live music with 144,355 people: these collective experiences inspire people and break down barriers in classical music. Together, we are making a difference.

Your support enables us to bring world-class performances to our resident venues across the South West and locally through our ‘BSO On Your Doorstep’ concerts. In 2023, we performed The Rite of Spring – with Seeta Patel Dance – to sold-out halls in Basingstoke and Poole, and at Sadler’s Wells, London. Being able to experience cultural events close to home enables more people to witness the magic of these live events.

Unlocking creative potential

Did you know that as a National Lottery player you’re helping us to unlock the creative potential of the next generation? In 2023/24, there were 35,902 participations in 122 educational events that we ran here in the South West.

Being able to access the creative arts is widely known to have a positive impact on young people’s lives. You have made it possible for thousands of children to experience these events through your support.

Empower lives of people in the South West

Our health and wellbeing events, which take place in communities throughout the South West, have a huge impact on people’s lives. As a Lottery player, you helped us to reach 3,525 participations through our projects in 2023/24. These kind of events reach people living with dementia or in care homes, and support a range of creative music-making projects for people living with mental health or addiction issues.

Your ongoing support of the National Lottery is helping to change lives here in the South West — we couldn’t be more grateful. As the Lottery marks its 30th birthday we want to say a huge thank you… and here’s to empowering more lives over the coming decade.