FAQs

Why does Versus Arthritis have a lottery?

We have a lottery as a way to raise vital funds so that we can continue our work to support people with arthritis.

Our lottery also helps us to reach new people who may not have heard of Versus Arthritis before – it’s a great way to help people get involved in our push against arthritis.

We’re committed to operating our lottery in a safe, secure and responsible way, and we are licensed by the Gambling Commission.

If you are concerned about your gambling, we recommend contacting the BeGambleAware helpline on 0808 8020 133 or visiting their website at www.begambleaware.org.

How does the lottery work?

By taking part in the lottery, you are joining a charity lottery called Unity, which brings together lots of charity players into one weekly lottery draw.

You will receive a 6-digit lottery number when you enter. And every Friday you will be entered into our draw. The winning digits are chosen at random.

You can have up to 20 chances per draw each for a £1, giving you even more chances to win one of our fantastic prizes.

Prizes are issued and posted to the winner directly, there is no need to claim.

How old must I be to enter?

You must be at least 18 years old to participate in the Versus Arthritis Weekly Lottery.

Can I choose my own game numbers?

When you enter the lottery, you will be sent a unique 6-digit number. This number will be chosen at random and will be your number for as long as you play our lottery.

How much of each £1 played goes to support people with arthritis?

When you play our lottery, 50% of every pound goes to support people with arthritis – it funds life-changing research and vital services that help people to live well with their condition.

The remaining 50% of every pound played covers prizes (18.4%) and the lottery’s administration (31.6%).

Why is the price £4.34 per month when paying by Direct Debit?

Each chance in the lottery cost £4.34 a month. This is based on you paying £1 a week over a 52-week year.

Your Direct debit will be collected monthly. Some months will have five weeks and some months will have four. The additional £0.34p will build up credit to cover the months where there are five weeks.

How will I know if I'm in the draw?

Within 21 days of signing up you will receive a letter of confirmation which includes your unique lottery number(s). You will also be given the date you will first be included in the draw.

How will I know if I've won?

When the draw takes place, all winners will be sent notification by post or email. You will not need to claim your prize.

If you match 4 digits or more, you will be sent your winnings automatically, either directly into your bank (if playing by Direct Debit), or via a cheque sent in the post.

If you match 3 digits you will be sent an email to confirm your win and your temporary 5 prize entry lottery numbers for the following week's draw.

How much does it cost Versus Arthritis if I win?

There is no cost to Versus Arthritis if you win. The draw is a number-match game, so the cost of prizes is covered at the time the number is drawn and prizes distributed.

How can I get support and information about arthritis?

It takes strength to live with arthritis, and we’re here to share strength whenever you need it.

If you need support and advice, call our free arthritis support helpline on 0800 5200 520 (Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm).

You can also chat to our arthritis virtual assistant – AVA – 24 hours a day, seven days a week at www.versusarthritis.org.

Our COVID-19 virtual assistant – COVA – is also available around the clock to answer your questions about arthritis and COVID-19 at www.versusarthritis.org/get-help/cova.

Our online community is another great way to get support – visit community.versusarthritis.org to connect with other people with arthritis who understand what you’re experiencing.