A unique opportunity is now open for everyone who cares about the UK’s extraordinary heritage to give their views on our plans for the future.

We support projects that range from restoring natural landscapes to rescuing neglected buildings: from recording diverse community histories to providing life-changing training. 

We now want to know what people think our role, vision and priorities should be as the UK’s biggest funder of heritage during our next strategic funding framework – the period from 2019-2024.

New approach

Comments are being invited on a proposed new approach including targeted funding campaigns, repayable loans and public involvement in decision-making, all of which could have a role over the next five years in ensuring the most effective use of National Lottery money to support the UK’s heritage.

Chief Executive of HLF Ros Kerslake, said: “Since 1994, HLF has distributed £7.8billion to over 40,000 heritage projects – an unparalleled legacy that has transformed neighbourhoods, communities, visitor attractions and people’s lives across the length and breadth of the nation. 

[quote=Ros Kerslake, HLF Chief Executive]"We see our future role as inspiring, leading and resourcing our heritage."[/quote]

“We now hold a unique position as the largest dedicated funder of the UK’s heritage and, at a time of increased competition and reduced budgets, want to be sure we are using every pound of National Lottery players’ money in the best way possible.

“We see our future role as inspiring, leading and resourcing our heritage to create positive and lasting change for people and communities, now and in the future.”

Full range of heritage

We still expect to fund a full range of heritage including landscapes, places of worship, parks, townscapes, buildings at risk and heritage skills.  We also expect to continue to put people and communities at the heart of our funding decisions.

Today’s consultation follows in-depth research carried out with people who play the National Lottery, who say they value the fact that we take an inclusive approach, don’t define heritage and support the full breadth of heritage across the UK. 

Get involved

The consultation is available via the ComRes microsite and runs until Thursday 22 March 2018.