Devizes MS Support Group Set to Raise Almost £1,100 Through Wiltshire Community Lottery

A support group helping people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) in Devizes is on track to raise almost £1,100 during its first year through the Wiltshire Community Lottery.

The Devizes MS Support Group joined the lottery scheme to generate additional funding for its activities while raising awareness of the support it offers to people living with the neurological condition.

The group already organises a range of fundraising activities, including quiz nights, plant sales and collections. However, joining the Wiltshire Community Lottery has provided another opportunity to bring in regular income and reach a wider audience.

Becky Thomas, Lead for Devizes MS Group, said the funding would help the organisation continue providing a welcoming and supportive environment for people affected by multiple sclerosis.

The group currently holds monthly meetings, alongside informal social gatherings throughout the month at local pubs and cafés. These activities give members opportunities to meet others, share experiences and enjoy time together.

Beyond providing social support, the group is also campaigning for improved accessibility for people with MS and other disabilities.

It is working with Devizes Town Council and local Healthwatch to highlight accessibility issues and encourage positive changes within the community.

Becky Thomas said: "The money raised helps us continue providing a welcoming and supportive group for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis.

"We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has joined our cause through the lottery. 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."

Wiltshire Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Mel Jacob, welcomed the contribution the lottery is making to organisations across the county.

She 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 first Wiltshire Community Lottery draw took place in June 2026, and more than 175 local good causes have since signed up to participate.

The scheme provides clubs, charities and community organisations with an additional fundraising opportunity through a weekly online lottery draw.

For every £1 ticket purchased, 50p goes directly to the good cause selected by the player, while another 10p is allocated to a central fund that Wiltshire Council will reinvest into local good causes.

Players can purchase up to 20 tickets per week, with prizes of up to £25,000 available. Current projections suggest the scheme could generate an additional £58,000 this year for participating organisations.

Organisations already involved include grassroots sports teams, village hall committees, lunch clubs, advice groups and youth clubs.

Local charities, clubs and community groups interested in joining can find out more about eligibility and registration at www.wiltshirecommunitylottery.co.uk.

Tickets can also be purchased through the website or by calling 03000 168 861.

The next draw is scheduled for 7 November 2026, with a special Super Draw planned for 28 November. Participants will have the opportunity to win a PS5 Pro gaming bundle or £1,000, courtesy of Gatherwell.

Wiltshire Council operates the lottery in partnership with Gatherwell, a licensed and regulated External Lottery Manager that delivers community lotteries for local authorities and community organisations across the country.

The lottery complies with the Gambling Act 2005. Players must be aged 18 or over and physically located in Great Britain.

Anyone concerned about gambling-related harm can find support through the Wiltshire Community Lottery website or Wiltshire Council's gambling harm support information. Further advice is also available from GambleAware.

The Wiltshire Community Lottery aims to provide a sustainable additional source of funding for local organisations, helping groups such as Devizes MS continue supporting people and making a difference in communities across the county.