Stretford Children’s Theatre takes the spotlight for community impact

Stretford Children’s Theatre, based in Trafford, has been highlighted as one of five National Lottery funded projects across the UK to feature in the nationwide celebration marking the £3 billion that has been raised for Good Causes through National Lottery sales in Co-op stores since 1994. 

The campaign will run in selected Co-op stores and communications from August 12 to September 1, helping to connect National Lottery players with the local projects that, because of them, are made possible. 

For children and young people, access to creative opportunities can be transformational. Streford Children’s Theatre is a local volunteer-led charity that runs affordable drama sessions for children and young people, helping them to build confidence creativity, teamwork, and communication skills. Through regular sessions and community performances, the charity gives young people the opportunity to express themselves, develop new friendships, and take part in theatre in a supportive and accessible environment. 

Thanks to National Lottery players, Streford Children’s Theatre has received a total of £65,000 in National Lottery funding between 2017 and 2025, helping them to deliver creative opportunities for local children and young people and bring the wider community together through the arts. 

Chairperson for Stretford Children’s Theatre, Shelly Quinton-Hulme, said: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised as part of this campaign and grateful to National Lottery players, whose support has helped make our work possible. Thanks to National Lottery funding, Stretford Children’s Theatre has continued to provide creative opportunities for children and young people, helping them to build confidence, develop new skills and connect with others through the performing arts. We are delighted to celebrate the incredible difference National Lottery players continue to make to communities like ours every day.” 

Kate McCrae, Co-op Retail Director, said: “Whether you pop to Co-op for a pint of milk, lunchtime meal deal or dinner, many people also enjoy playing The National Lottery. Every ticket bought has helped to make a difference, and this amazing sum raised via Co-op since The National Lottery first began more than 30 years ago has helped to fund causes that support stronger communities, improve wellbeing and, create opportunities for people of all ages in towns, villages and cities across the UK.” 

Bridget Lea, Managing Director for Retail at Allwyn, operator of The National Lottery, said: "Reaching £3bn raised for National Lottery Good Causes through Co-op stores is a remarkable milestone. Every National Lottery player who has purchased a ticket at Co-op has helped make a difference to communities across the UK. This campaign is our opportunity to say thank you - to players, to the incredible Co-op team and to everyone who has helped deliver life-changing National Lottery funding over the past three decades. The projects featured in this campaign are powerful examples of the positive impact made possible by National Lottery players every single day." 

This campaign is not only a celebration of the £3 billion that has been raised for Good Causes through Co-op stores, but a powerful reminder that playing The National Lottery also supports thousands of projects that strengthen communities, improve wellbeing and create opportunities for people of all ages.  

Since The National Lottery started in 1994, more than £53bn has been raised for Good Causes, supporting projects in every postcode district across the UK. Today, National Lottery players raise on average, more than £33m each week for National Lottery-funded projects.