Operator Self-Regulation

The Voluntary Code of Good Practice for Prize Draw Operators

A UK government-published self-regulatory standard that competition operators can sign up to. It sets out commitments around transparency, fairness, and consumer protection for prize draws and giveaways.

Read the full code on gov.uk Browse signatory operators

What the code covers

The voluntary code is published by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and supported by the Gambling Commission. Signatories commit to the following principles when running prize draws and giveaway-style competitions:

Transparency

Clear terms and conditions, prize details, ticket caps, and draw mechanics published upfront before entry.

Fairness

Draws are conducted fairly, with verifiable winner selection and prize delivery within stated timescales.

Consumer Protection

Refund and complaint processes are documented, and operators handle disputes responsibly.

Responsible Marketing

No misleading promotions, no targeting of children, and clear distinction between paid entries and free routes.

Free Entry Routes

A genuine no-purchase entry option is offered, as required to operate legally as a prize draw rather than a lottery.

Identity & Age Checks

Operators verify that winners are over 18 and eligible to receive prizes.

What it means for you as a player

Prize draws sit outside the formal gambling licensing regime, so this voluntary code is the closest thing the UK industry has to a shared standard. Operators who sign it have publicly committed to consumer-friendly practices — it is not a regulator or guarantee, but it is a meaningful signal.

On Find Competitions we display a Voluntary Code badge alongside operators whose names appear on the published signatory list. We check our list against the one on gov.uk every day; it was last checked on 26 October 2026. Matching is by name, so let us know if you spot an inaccuracy.