Two new Members appointed to The National Lottery Community Fund Board

The appointments of Sunder Katwala and Michelle Mitchell OBE to The National Lottery Community Fund Board were confirmed by the Secretary of State for a four-year term beginning 5 August 2026. Katwala, Director of British Future, brings expertise in identity, immigration and social cohesion, having served as a Commissioner of the Equality and Human Rights Commission and a member of the Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion. His career spans journalism, publishing and think tanks, including leadership roles at the Fabian Society and Foreign Policy Centre.

Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, has been appointed to the Board, bringing extensive experience in charity leadership and organisational transformation. Mitchell, awarded an OBE in 2015, has led major programmes to strengthen impact and sustainability in organisations focused on improving lives and supporting communities. Her strategic leadership and governance experience will contribute to the Fund’s public benefit objectives.

Members of The National Lottery Community Fund Board receive an annual remuneration of £7,848. The appointments were made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments, ensuring compliance with public sector governance standards. The process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments to maintain transparency and fairness.

Under the Governance Code, appointees must declare any significant political activity in the past five years, including holding office, public speaking, donations or election candidature. The Secretary of State confirmed that neither Katwala nor Mitchell declared such activity, meeting the requirements for appointment.