• Before the National Lottery was launched in 1994 there was concern that an early introduction to gambling could lead to gambling addiction among some susceptible children.
• By 1997 4% of 12 to 15 year olds had gambled on National Lottery Scratch Cards and 40% had gambled on the National Lottery Draw.
• In January 1997, Camelot launched a telephone hotline (0870 16 000 16) to encourage the public to report retailers they believe have sold tickets to children under the age of 16 years.
• In February 1999 came Project Child, a new training and awareness programme to prevent underage sales of National Lottery tickets.

Legislation

• National Lottery, etc. Act 1993
• National Lottery Regulations 1994

Age Restriction

Persons under the age of 16 are prohibited from purchasing Lottery Tickets, including Scratch Cards, or claiming prizes.

Offences

• To sell lottery tickets or scratch cards to any person under 16 years of age. This is the case whether or not they are for their own use or purchasing for somebody else.
• The seller of the tickets must be over 16 years old.

Maximum Penalties

Useful Links
[Note: These links will open in a new window]


Camelot Group


The National Lottery


The National Lottery Commission UK

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