Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 08:32 am
Francis House Children’s Hospice is urging members of the public to consider making a Will during September with the launch of their ‘Make a Will Month’ scheme. The Manchester-based charity provides care and support to families of children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
Six participating solicitors across Greater Manchester have agreed to provide their time and expertise at a discounted rate, drawing up or amending a simple Will for an individual for a suggested donation of £100 or £175 for a double Will for married couples or partners.
Louise Salisbury, Partner and Head of the Wills and Probate Team at AST Hampsons in Rochdale said: “AST are proud to be involved in this initiative with Francis House. Funding is vital for its survival. By making a Will under the scheme and paying them instead of us – or leaving a legacy to Francis House will further strengthen the future of the Hospice.”
Rachael Taylor of Francis House said: “It’s all too easy to put off making a Will but drawing up a Will is the most important thing you can do to protect your family’s future. A Will doesn’t just cover finances and property, but also legal guardians for your children, funeral arrangements, and any donations you would like to leave to charity.”
Legacies in Wills left for Francis House Family Trust are a crucial part of their income, allowing the hospice to provide the best respite, homecare, end of life care and bereavement support to more than 600 families.
Those signing up for ‘Make a Will Month’ will benefit from a discounted service and have the satisfaction of knowing that their future planning for their own family will make a difference to the charity.
On the importance of the scheme, Taylor added: “There is no obligation to leave a gift to Francis House when participating in our Make A Will Month, but should you choose to do so, a gift to charity can reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax you have to pay or may even result in you avoiding paying it altogether. We are really grateful to all of the solicitors who have joined forces with us and kindly given up their time and expertise to play such a crucial role in ensuring the success of our campaign.”
Francis House Children’s Hospice are encouraging members of the public to make use of the ‘Make a Will Month’ scheme, running from September 1 to September 29, to benefit from discounted services and make a difference to the charity. For full details of the legal firms taking part and to book an appointment visit www.francishouse.org.uk/will-month.
