Three decades of making a difference

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Since The National Lottery was launched in 1994, we’ve given over £18.4 billion to communities. So 2024 is a milestone moment, a chance to reflect and celebrate. Here we share some of the ways this funding has made a difference, showing how communities have come together to create change.

Some differences are local or personal. A neglected woodland has become a thriving community space, hosting everything from outdoor gyms to history walks. Babies have grown up to become trustees of the organisations that helped to give them the best start in life. Despite harsh weather, schoolchildren in Shetland have learned climate-friendly ways to grow their own vegetables – even grapes and aubergines. From Belfast to Powys, charities have helped people turn their lives around, and seen them give back, supporting communities in their turn.

Others have a wide reach, whether that’s involved designing and delivering new community mental health services, or a programme giving 128,000 young people opportunities to improve their local environment.

This report shares stories of communities supported by The National Lottery Community Fund and its predecessor organisations1. You’ll see how community-led funding has empowered people – helping them take action on what matters to them, build connections, and support each other to thrive.

1 The report covers funding from The National Lottery Charities Board, The Millennium Commission, Community Fund, New Opportunities Fund, Big Lottery Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund.

Date published
November 2024

A journey in 20 stories

Some of the earliest grants are still making a difference. With capital investment, community groups have bought, built, and improved premises, turning them into local hubs for support and connection. Flagship projects have created UK landmarks, building community pride. Events of all sizes have fostered friendships and neighbourliness. And much smaller sums are still bringing people together – whether that’s by building a community greenhouse, or starting a parent and baby class that’s still running years later.

Three decades of making a difference: Stories of communities changing lives (PDF 3 MB)

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