A Legacy That Continues Beyond a Lifetime
When most people think about writing a Will, their focus is naturally on family, friends and ensuring loved ones are looked after. For some, however, a Will is also an opportunity to support a cause that has been important to them throughout their life. Whether it’s a local community charity, a medical research organisation, an animal welfare charity or a cause that has personally touched your family, leaving a gift in your Will allows your support to continue long into the future.
For many charities, gifts left in Wills are one of their most important sources of future funding. Through the Lyons Bowe Charity Will Scheme, we work closely with charitable organisations across the UK and regularly see how legacy gifts help fund projects, support communities, and create lasting impact. If you leave a gift in your Will, you’ll recieve 50% off your Will-writing, starting at £125, plus VAT.
Looking After Family and Giving Back
One of the most common misconceptions about charitable giving is that it comes at the expense of family members. In reality, many people choose to provide for their loved ones first while also leaving a gift to charity. A carefully prepared Will can help ensure the people closest to you are protected while still allowing you to support a cause that is important to you.
The decision is entirely personal, and there is no right or wrong approach. What matters is that your Will reflects your wishes and the legacy you would like to leave behind.
Different Ways to Leave a Gift
Some people choose to leave a fixed sum of money, while others leave a percentage of their estate. It is also possible to leave specific items, such as jewellery, artwork or property. The right option will depend on your circumstances, your intentions and the impact you would like your gift to have.
Understanding the Wider Benefits
Charitable giving can also form part of wider estate planning. In some circumstances, leaving a gift to a registered charity may reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax payable by your estate. This can help ensure that more of your assets are distributed in line with your wishes while supporting causes that are important to you. Every estate is different, which is why it is important to seek advice tailored to your circumstances.
A Gift That Makes a Difference
A Will is about more than deciding who receives your assets. It is an opportunity to reflect on the life you have lived, the people you care about, and the causes that have mattered to you along the way. For those who choose to include a charitable gift, the impact can extend far beyond their lifetime, helping charities continue their work and supporting future generations.
At Lyons Bowe, we help clients create Wills that reflect their personal wishes, family circumstances and long-term goals. Whether you are writing your first Will or updating an existing one, we can help you explore the options available and ensure your legacy is recorded exactly as you intend.
