A gift in your will today will help families of tomorrow.
If you don't already have a Will, the below might help you in the process of preparing to write it. You can also find out how to update your Will to include a gift to The Hospice of St Francis
1. Make an appointment with a Solicitor to discuss your will.
2. Make a list of everything you own (your Assets such as your house/car) and their approximate value.You should also detail what you owe (outstanding mortgage, other loans or other money owed etc) and simply take this amount away from the total of your assets. In total this makes up the net value of your ‘Estate'. Your Solicitor will advise you on what you need to take into consideration.
3. Make a list of names and addresses of people (the Beneficiaries) and causes that you wish to remember in your Will.
4. Identify one or up to four people who you trust to be your 'Executors'– they will ensure that your Will is carried out according to your wishes. They can be family or friends, or a Solicitor.
5. Nominate a ‘Guardian’ normally a friend or family member, who has agreed to care for your children under 18 years of age (or other Dependants) in the event of your death.
6. Once you have all of the information gathered, meet with your Solicitor who will draft your Will. Your solicitor will also give you advise on tax issues and will advise you how leaving a gift to charity can reduce the overall Inheritance Tax liability for your estate.
7. If you already have a Will you can easily amend your wishes or include a gift by adding a Codicil. You can download our Codicil form here to add a gift in your Will to support The Hospice of St Francis. Just print, complete and have it signed and dated in front of two witnesses (who will also sign). The signed Codicil should be kept with your original Will.
8. Once your Will has been finalised and signed, or if you have added a Codicil, make sure that your loved ones know where it is kept.
Ensure that your loved ones are taken care of in your Will, and help the Hospice at the same time by making a new Will or update your Will during our Make a Will Month in October.