No one likes to think about making a Will and people have all sorts of reasons to avoid making one. They don’t have time, they don’t believe that it will be necessary and, of course, none of us like to think about dying.
Yet making a Will is the only way of ensuring that your estate passes to those you would like to benefit. When no Will exists, it can cause stress and upset to those you love at a time when they are least able to cope with it.
Making a Will enables you to choose who will get your assets instead of leaving the choice up to the government.
You may think you have nothing of value, however all of us have items of sentimental value and careful planning in the preparation of your Will ensures your loved ones are provided for and may avoid worries for them at a time of bereavement.
With an up to date Will, you can have peace of mind that after your death the people and causes that matter to you will be looked after in the way you choose, and your wishes followed the way you intended. The practical aspects of making a Will can help you to start thinking about what is important to you and how you’d like to be remembered. Also, a Northamptonshire Healthcare Foundation Trust Advance Care Plan will give you the chance to think, talk about and write down your wishes and preferences for your care, should this be needed. This gives everyone a clear idea of the things that are vital to you if there comes a time when you’re unable to express your wishes yourself. You can download an Advance Care Plan, or order a printed copy, on our website.
Writing an advance care plan
If you need help with writing or amending your Will, it’s important to use a reputable solicitor to make sure your Will is valid and legally binding. A solicitor can also advise you on how Inheritance Tax affects you, helping you to understand the final value of your estate after tax. To find a solicitor in your area, the Law Society offers a free ‘Find a local Solicitor’ service which can be found on their website lawsociety.org.uk or by calling 020 7242 1222. We also work with a group of local solicitors in order to provide a free Will writing service to our supporters. You’ll find information about this on the next page.
There are a number of different ways you can include the Hospice in your Will, depending on your circumstances. It doesn’t have to be a large amount, because every penny makes a difference.
Your solicitor or other professional adviser will help you with the wording of your gift, but here are some samples of wording you might consider:
By leaving a gift to Cynthia Spencer Hospice in your Will, you will help us to carry on our vital work for years to come.
Since the hospice opened in 1976 the number of people we have cared for has increased significantly and that figure is going to continue to grow, particularly in the community.
Your Will is an important legal document. Will writing solicitors are experienced not only in drawing up Wills, but advising on important related matters of law, such as succession, taxation, property matters and family problems.
Throughout the year we offer our Make a Will campaign in partnership with local solicitors.
The solicitors waive their normal fee to you and instead ask for a suggested donation – every penny of which goes to Cynthia Spencer Hospice.
Fill in the form, and one of our team will contact you shortly.
When you complete this entry form you will be sent the terms and conditions to sign and return to us before the activity can begin.