5 Questions That Your Players Are Asking Before Entering a Raffle or Prize Draw Competition

Raffle and prize draw competitions are more popular than ever in the UK, offering players the excitement of winning everything from cash to cars and even homes.

But as the industry grows, players are becoming more aware and more selective. They want to know that the competitions they enter are fair, transparent, and trustworthy.

If you operate a competition business, understanding these questions and having strong, honest answers is one of the best ways to build confidence, attract loyal players, and stay ahead of the upcoming government standards.

1. “Is this competition fair, and are winners really chosen at random?”

This is always the first question players ask.

Most participants never see what happens behind the scenes, so clarity matters. Explaining your draw method and showing exactly how winners are chosen helps build immediate trust.

If your draw process is independently verified or certified (for example, through the UKCPSA Certified Platform™ standard), make that information clear. Transparency is no longer optional. It’s a key part of what responsible operators are expected to deliver.

2. “What happens to my data when I enter?”

Every entry form collects personal information names, emails, and sometimes payment details. Players want to know that this data is handled safely.

You can build confidence by clearly explaining how you protect customer information. Make sure your privacy policy is visible, your systems meet UK GDPR requirements, and you never share data without consent.

When players trust that their data is safe, they’re far more likely to enter again.

3. “Can I really enter for free, and do free entries have a fair chance?”

Free entry routes often cause confusion.

Although they are a legal requirement to separate prize draws from lotteries, many players doubt whether they’re genuinely equal to paid entries.

Your role as an operator is to make the free entry method visible, accessible, and fair. Explain it clearly, make it easy to find, and confirm that free entries are included in the same draw as paid ones.

Being open about this not only meets compliance expectations but also strengthens player trust.

4. “How do I know this competition site is legitimate?”

Trust begins with presentation. A well-designed website, clear company details, and visible proof of past winners go a long way. But the strongest sign of legitimacy is independent certification.

Displaying a UKCPSA Certified Platform™ seal shows that your business has passed checks for fairness, transparency, and operational integrity. It’s an independent signal that players can rely on, giving you a competitive advantage in an increasingly cautious market.

5. “What happens if I win, and will you actually contact me?”

This might seem like a small detail, but it matters more than you think.

Players want reassurance that winners are contacted properly and publicly announced. If your draw process or communication is slow or inconsistent, it can easily raise doubts.

Be clear about how and when winners are contacted. Publish results, provide evidence where possible, and keep your communication professional. A simple, honest process builds long-term credibility and word-of-mouth trust.

Final Thoughts

The UK raffle and prize draw competition industry is changing quickly. Players are better informed and more cautious about who they trust.

By addressing these five questions clearly and confidently, you show that your business is open, compliant, and built on integrity.

As the Government’s Voluntary Code of Conduct continues to take shape, the most responsible operators will be the ones setting the new standard for fairness and transparency.