National Lottery games will no longer be available to anyone under the age of 18 from 22nd April 2021. This change will prevent 16 and 17-year-olds from being able to take part as had previously been allowed.

The change applies to all National Lottery games, whether you enjoy draw games such as EuroMillions, Thunderball or Set For Life, or like to buy scratchcards. You will not be able to play at retail stores or take part online.

The increase in the age limit comes off the back of a government review last year, which concluded that the minimum age to enter National Lottery games should be the same as the legal age for other forms of gambling in the UK, which is 18.

The review considered the importance of protecting young people and the findings were fully supported by the National Lottery. Steps have since been taken to ensure the changes can be implemented on 22nd April.

Anyone over the age of 18 will be able to carry on playing as normal, with the rules and procedures otherwise staying exactly the same. It is only National lottery players of 16 and 17 who are affected. If you use betting or concierge services to take part in games, the law already required you to be at least 18.