Tag: Will Aid

63% of adults in Edinburgh don’t have an up-to-date Will 

Millions wrongly believe they have ‘nothing worth leaving’

A solid majority of adults in Edinburgh risk leaving loved ones without clear instructions about their final wishes, new research has revealed.

A new poll commissioned by charity Will-writing campaign Will Aid has found 63% of adults in Edinburgh either do not have a Will or admit the one they have is out of date.

The research, released to mark the opening of appointments for the Will Aid 2026 campaign, found 57% of people in the city have never made a Will, while a further 6% admit their existing Will no longer reflects their current circumstances or wishes.

Nationally, the picture is similarly concerning, with 67% of UK adults either without a Will or with one that is out of date – 57% have never made one and 10% admit theirs is no longer up to date.

And despite the potential consequences for the people they leave behind, 44% of UK adults say they are unlikely to write a Will within the next year.

Will Aid is warning that misconceptions about who needs a Will could be leaving millions of families unnecessarily exposed.

Peter de Vena Franks, Campaign Director at Will Aid, said: “The fact that 63% of people in Edinburgh either don’t have a Will or have one which is no longer up to date should concern all of us.

“A Will is about far more than the value of the money or property you leave behind. It is about making your wishes clear, protecting the people you care about and making incredibly difficult decisions easier for those you love at what will already be a distressing time.

“You may have children whose future you want to protect, possessions with enormous sentimental value, pets you want cared for or very clear wishes about who should – and should not – benefit from your estate.

“Without a valid Will, you lose the opportunity to make many of those decisions yourself.”

The national research revealed that one of the biggest barriers to making a Will is the belief that people simply do not have enough to leave behind.

Of the 1,151 UK respondents surveyed who had not made a Will, the most common reason – cited by 29% – was the belief that they did not have anything worth leaving.

Cost and simply not finding the time were each cited by 19%, while 18% said they felt uncomfortable thinking about death and 14% were put off by the perceived complexity of the process.

Peter added: “Perhaps one of the most striking findings from our national research is that almost three in ten people without a Will believe they simply don’t have anything worth leaving.

“But Wills are not just for people with substantial wealth or property. They are about giving you a say in what happens after you die and making your wishes clear for the people you leave behind.

“We want people to recognise that making a Will is relevant to them, whatever their circumstances.”

The national research also revealed some of the life events that finally prompt people to act.

Among 857 respondents who had made a Will, 23% said they wanted the reassurance of knowing their children would be looked after if they died, while the same proportion said having children had prompted them to make one.

More than one in five (22%) said hearing stories about people who had died without a Will encouraged them to act, while 18% made theirs after buying a house.

Will Aid is also urging people in Edinburgh who already have a Will not to assume the job is finished.

With 6% of local respondents admitting their Will is out of date, the campaign is reminding people that a document written years ago may no longer reflect their family, relationships, assets or wishes, particularly following significant life changes.

Peter said: “Making a Will is not something you should do once and then forget about for the rest of your life.

“Families change. Relationships change. People marry, separate and divorce. Children and grandchildren are born. People buy homes, build businesses and acquire assets. Sadly, people we intended to include in our Wills can also die before us.

“If you know your Will no longer reflects what you want to happen, it is important not to keep putting off reviewing it.

“There may never feel like a perfect time to think about death, but making or updating a Will is ultimately about looking after the people you leave behind.”

The findings have been released as Will Aid 2026 opens for appointments, giving people in Edinburgh and across the UK the opportunity to have a basic Will professionally prepared by a participating solicitor while supporting good causes.

Every November, participating solicitors volunteer their time and waive their usual fee for writing a basic Will. Instead, clients are invited to make a voluntary donation to Will Aid, with the money raised supporting the campaign’s charity partners.

Since it was founded, the campaign has brought together the legal profession and some of the UK’s best-known charities, helping people put their affairs in order while raising millions of pounds for vital charitable work.

Donna Imrie, Partner at Rollos Law, said: “One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is that Wills are only for people who are wealthy or own significant assets.

“That simply isn’t the case. A professionally drafted Will gives you control over what happens after your death and allows you to make your wishes clear rather than leaving important decisions to chance.

“It is particularly important for parents and for people whose family circumstances may not be straightforward.

“We would also encourage anyone in Edinburgh who already has a Will to think about when they last looked at it. If your life has changed significantly since it was written, your Will may need to change too.

“Will Aid is an opportunity to sit down with a professional solicitor, talk through your circumstances and make sure your wishes are properly recorded – while at the same time helping charities carrying out extraordinary work in the UK and around the world.”

Appointments for Will Aid 2026 are now open and can be made with a participating firm either in person, where available, or remotely.

To find a participating Will Aid solicitor and book an appointment, or for more information about Will Aid, visit willaid.org.uk

Edinburgh law firm raises £7,740 for charity Will-writing campaign

A law firm in Edinburgh has raised a brilliant £7,740 by participating in an annual charity Will-writing campaign – making it one of the top-donating firms across the UK this year and the third highest new firm in this year’s campaign.

Ralph Sayer Solicitors and Estate Agents dedicated their time and expertise to writing Wills as part of this year’s Will Aid campaign. Instead of charging their usual fees for basic Wills, they invited clients to make a donation to Will Aid – helping to fund vital charity work in the UK and across the world.

The funds raised will support Will Aid’s partner charities, which carry out work across a range of important causes, from providing humanitarian aid to protecting vulnerable children and those facing hardship here in the UK.

Kimberley Mackay, Partner, said: “We’re delighted to have helped so many people put their affairs in order while raising such a substantial amount for charity as part of Will Aid. It was a real team effort, and we’re incredibly proud to have made such an impact in our first year taking part.

“Well done to all the team and thank you to the people who took part. The money raised will make a real difference to people in need, both here at home and around the world.”

Since its launch in 1988, Will Aid has raised more than £26 million in donations, with millions more pledged in charitable legacies thanks to the generosity of participating solicitors.

Lauren Poole, Chair of Will Aid, praised the firm’s achievement, and said: “A huge congratulations to the team at Ralph Sayer for getting involved in Will Aid for the first time and making such a strong contribution.

“It’s fantastic to see firms embracing the campaign and using their expertise to support both their clients and our partner charities. We’re incredibly grateful for their enthusiasm and commitment.”

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid’s Campaign Director, added: “It’s always encouraging to see firms like Ralph Sayer take part in Will Aid for the first time and achieve so much.

“The campaign continues to grow thanks to the support of new participants, and their willingness to give their time and expertise plays a vital role in helping us reach more people and raise essential funds for our charity partners.

“We hope this is the start of a long and rewarding involvement with Will Aid.”

Will Aid runs every November, offering people the opportunity to have a professionally written Will in exchange for a donation. The suggested donation is £120 for a basic single Will and £200 for a pair of basic mirror Wills, with all proceeds supporting Will Aid’s partner charities: Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Crisis, NSPCC, SCIAF (Scotland), Shelter, and Trócaire (Northern Ireland).

To be the first to know when the list of Will Aid solicitors goes live for the 2026 campaign, sign up here: https://www.willaid.org.uk/early-bird

More solicitors are needed each year to meet demand. To find out more about taking part, visit https://www.willaid.org.uk

Poll reveals majority of cohabiting couples in Scotland unaware of inheritance risks without a Will

A new survey conducted by Will Aid, the national Will-writing campaign, has revealed an alarming gap in the public’s understanding about inheritance laws affecting cohabiting couples.

The survey found that 68% of cohabitees in Scotland were unaware of the rules of intestacy and what happens to their estate if they die without a Will.

The statistics from Scotland paint an identical picture to the rest of the country, with 68% of UK cohabitees also unaware of the risks without a Will.

This lack of awareness could have devastating consequences for many Scottish families, as cohabiting couples—regardless of how long they have lived together or whether they have children—are not automatically entitled to inherit from one another if one partner dies without leaving a Will.

Key findings from the poll include:

  • 25% mistakenly believe their estate would automatically pass to their partner
  • 24% admitted they were unsure what would happen
  • 15% said they had never even thought about the issue
  • 7% thought their estate would go to close friends

The Rules of Intestacy dictate how a person’s estate is distributed when they die without a Will.

These rules prioritise spouses, civil partners, and blood relatives, often leaving cohabiting partners with no legal right to inherit anything. This could leave surviving partners facing significant financial hardship, particularly in cases where they are dependent on the deceased’s income or home.

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid Campaign Director, said: “Many people assume that after living together for a period of time, they automatically become common law husband and wife, but this is not the case. The concept of ‘common law marriage’ ceased to exist a very long time ago.

“If you are cohabiting as a couple, the law does not recognise you as common law spouses, even if you have children together and have lived together for many years.

“Therefore, if you do not have a Will, the Rules of Intestacy will apply, and your partner will be completely disregarded.”

The annual Will Aid campaign sees solicitors across the UK volunteering their time to write Wills throughout November, so it is an ideal time for people who are cohabiting to get their wishes professionally drafted in a legal document, which will help to protect their loved ones in the future.

De Vena Franks added: “Will Aid is the perfect opportunity for unmarried and cohabiting partners to get a professionally written Will in place.

“Without a Will, surviving partners may not be automatically entitled to inherit, leaving them in a vulnerable position – and it’s particularly worrying that so many people aren’t aware of this, and don’t fully understand the Rules of Intestacy.

“By participating in Will Aid, couples can ensure their wishes are clearly documented, giving both partners peace of mind that their loved one will be provided for in the event of their death.”

Will Aid is a partnership between the legal profession and eight of the UK’s best-loved charities.

The initiative, which has been running for more than 35 years, sees participating solicitors waive their fee for writing basic Wills every November.

Instead, they invite clients to make a voluntary upfront donation to Will Aid – the suggested amounts are £120 for a single basic Will and £200 for a pair of basic ‘mirror’ Wills.

Appointments are available now, and you can sign up by visiting www.willaid.org.uk

Will Aid is encouraging people to use its upcoming campaign month to write or update their Wills with a participating solicitor, while also supporting UK charities including Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, SCIAF (Scotland), Trócaire (Northern Ireland) and – new for this year, Shelter and Crisis.

For more information on Will Aid and how to get involved visit www.willaid.org.uk

Edinburgh law firm aims to raise thousands for charity through wills

Capital locals urged to seize chance to plan ahead while supporting charity

EDINBURGH residents will have the chance to write a professionally prepared will at no charge, thanks to a nationwide initiative encouraging people to put their affairs in order and consider leaving a legacy to charity.

The scheme, which runs from September to November, allows participating solicitors to provide simple wills at no cost to clients.

Among those taking part locally is solicitor and estate agency Ralph Sayer, supporting the national Will Aid campaign and providing simple wills at no cost to clients.

Kimberley Mackay (above), Partner in Ralph Sayers’ Private Client department, said: “We speak to people every day who’ve been putting off writing a will.

“For many, it’s an emotional hurdle, most of us don’t like talking about our own death. For others, it’s the perception that legal services are complicated or expensive, but this scheme removes that barrier.

“It’s completely free for people to take part. In return, they are invited to make a voluntary donation to Will Aid. It is also a great opportunity for people to think about leaving a gift to a charity close to their heart in their will.”

“This is a meaningful introduction to our service in a professional, approachable way that will give people access to our expert team offering the very best legal advice.

“Taking this simple step can save huge stress for your family, and it can be the start of a trusted relationship with your solicitor, someone who can support you throughout life’s changes.

“We’re here to help and there is no such thing as a stupid question, and we want to ensure that those who come to us feel respected and heard.”

Approximately 223,000 adults in Edinburgh currently do not have a will, reflecting a wider UK trend where more than half of adults lack a valid will — often leaving loved ones facing lengthy complications, legal uncertainty and unnecessary stress.

Those who are not married face some of the greatest risks, as partners have no automatic legal rights to inherit, regardless of how long they have been together or whether they share a home or children.

Ralph Sayer will waive its usual will-writing fees, which can range from £400 to £600, meaning the service is free to those using the Will Aid Scheme.

People are encouraged to consider leaving a gift to charity in their will, whether that’s a modest sum equivalent to the usual cost of preparing a will, or a larger legacy that reflects their wishes.

Clients will receive a full one-hour consultation during which their needs, family circumstances and estate structure will be discussed in depth with its Private Client team.

Will Aid, which has been running since 1998, supports eight UK charities: Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Crisis, NSPCC, Shelter, SCIAF and Trócaire. The campaign has raised millions over the years through people choosing to leave a gift in their will.

Ivan Ralph, Chief Executive Officer at Ralph Sayer, said: “We offer a personalised service for everyday people. “Whether you’re a new homeowner, part of a blended family, or just haven’t got round to it yet, this is a chance to get something important in place, and know you’ve been properly looked after.

“This is also a simple way to benefit charities doing life-changing work across the UK, not by giving money now, but by considering a gift in your will. Even a small legacy can make a meaningful difference, and for many it’s a chance to leave behind a lasting impact.

“We want people to know that planning ahead doesn’t need to be daunting. Our team is here to guide you through the process with clarity and compassion.”

Appointments will include a draft will and clear next steps provided by Ralph Sayer, with the opportunity to extend support for more detailed planning if required.

Kimberley added: “Most people are unaware of what should be included in a will, even things like who looks after your pets or who gets sentimental items can become a source of stress.

“For blended families or those with children from previous relationships, it can get really complicated if there’s nothing written down. Those at greatest risk are those who are not in marriages, if anything happens, your partner could be left with nothing.”

Ralph Sayer’s close-knit, family-run team of solicitors, paralegals and estate agents work side by side with a shared goal, to deliver clear, consistent and first-class service to every client.

Since launching in 2022, the firm has been proudly based in Edinburgh while supporting clients all across Scotland, offering trusted insight with a growing reach.

With a reputation for shaking up the market, Ralph Sayer is known for its transparent fees, down-to-earth advice, and refreshingly personal approach.

To learn more about Ralph Sayer, please visit: https://ralphsayer.com/

To find out more or to take part, visit: www.willaid.org.uk

Scottish law firm raises £10,800 for charity Will-writing campaign

A Edinburgh law firm has raised an impressive £10,800 by participating in an annual charity Will-writing campaign – making it the second highest donating firms across Scotland this year.

McEwan Fraser Legal has taken part in the Will Aid campaign since 2019, raising a grand total of £23,555, by volunteering their time and expertise to write Wills and, instead of charging their usual fees for writing basic Wills, inviting clients to make a donation to Will Aid.

The funds raised go to Will Aid’s partner charities, which support a range of important causes, from providing humanitarian aid to protecting vulnerable children here in the UK.

Ken McEwan from the firm, said: “Taking part in Will Aid is something we look forward to each year. It’s a fantastic opportunity to give back -not only by helping people secure their future with a professionally written Will but also by raising funds for charities that make a real impact.

“Our team is incredibly passionate about supporting charities, and knowing our efforts are helping both our community and those further afield is truly rewarding. We are delighted to have played our part in this year’s campaign and to have raised such a significant amount.”

Since its launch in 1988, Will Aid has raised more than £24 million in donations, with millions more pledged in charitable legacies, thanks to the generosity of participating solicitors.

Lauren Poole, chair of Will Aid, said: “A huge well done to McEwan Fraser Legal for their incredible fundraising efforts this year.

“It’s inspiring to see so many legal professionals come together to make a difference – helping people gain peace of mind with a professionally written Will while supporting charities that change lives.

“We’re grateful to every solicitor who gives their time to this campaign, and on behalf of our partner charities, I’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to McEwan Fraser Legal and all the firms who participated this year.”

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid’s campaign director, added: “This year’s Will Aid campaign has been another resounding success, thanks to the dedication of firms like McEwan Fraser Legal.

“Their generosity and commitment mean that more people can get the will they need while also supporting crucial charitable work. It’s wonderful to see such enthusiasm for giving back.”

Will Aid takes place every November and involves solicitors waiving the fee for writing a basic will and instead inviting clients to make an upfront donation to Will Aid.

The suggested donation for a basic single Will is £100, and £180 for a pair of mirror Wills. 

Donations are shared between Will Aid’s partner charities: Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, SCIAF and Trócaire.

To meet growing demand, Will Aid is always looking for more solicitors to take part. For more information, visit www.willaid.org.uk.

Letters: Will Aid

To The Editor,

None of us want our loved ones to be left with confusion or financial problems after we die – but that’s the stark reality many face. New figures show the majority of UK adults—67%, according to a recent poll by Will Aid—still do not have a Will in place. The consequences of not having this vital legal document extend far beyond financial difficulties and can lead to significant emotional stress for those left behind.

This year’s campaign highlights two areas where a lack of planning could lead to unexpected hardships for families.

First, a recent Will Aid survey uncovered that 68% of cohabiting couples are unaware that they have no automatic right to inherit from each other without a Will, regardless of how long they’ve been together or if they have children. This knowledge gap puts thousands of families at risk of unforeseen financial challenges if a loved one passes without their intentions clearly documented.

Equally urgent is the issue of digital legacy. With 42% of UK adults neglecting to address digital assets in their estate plans, many families may be left without access to important memories and vital information. Digital banking, social media accounts, and online photo storage have become an integral part of our lives, yet they are often overlooked when preparing a Will.

Fortunately, Will Aid offers a straightforward way for people to secure their legacy and protect those they care about. Each November, participating solicitors across the UK volunteer their time to prepare basic Wills, waiving their usual fees in exchange for a donation to Will Aid’s seven partner charities. These donations support much-needed work by Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, SCIAF and Trócaire.

Solicitors are also providing virtual appointments, making it easier than ever for people to address these essential steps in securing their wishes. To find a solicitor and schedule an appointment, visit www.willaid.org.uk.

Through this simple step, people can help protect their families from unnecessary hardship while supporting some of the UK’s most loved charities.

Yours faithfully,

Peter de Vena Franks

Campaign Director

0300 0300 013

Nearly half of adults in Scotland don’t consider planning for their digital legacy in their Wills, new poll reveals

A concerning number of adults in Scotland risk leaving grieving loved ones without access to cherished memories and vital information by neglecting to plan for their digital legacy, a new survey by Will Aid shows. 

The national Will-writing campaign has revealed 44% of respondents in Scotland overlooked the critical need to include digital assets in estate planning – meaning friends and family may face significant challenges in the event of their death, including the loss of treasured photographs, and difficulties in managing financial affairs. 

As the world becomes increasingly digital, our online lives leave behind an important, but often overlooked, legacy. 

The rise of digital banking, cloud storage, and the prevalence of social media means that a person’s online presence and assets can be just as valuable – if not more so – than their physical belongings. Yet, many individuals fail to consider this when preparing their Will, so sorting out the deceased’s estate becomes a more complicated task than it needs to be, adding stress to an already difficult time. 

Michael Cressey, from Hadfield Bull and Bull Solicitors, said: “In an age where so much of our lives are online, ensuring loved ones have access to your digital accounts after you die is crucial.  

“Many people do not realise how much valuable information is stored in their email and online profiles – from financial records to cherished photographs. Failing to leave clear instructions and passwords can cause significant emotional and logistical hardship for those left behind.  

“Leaving instructions for digital assets in a safe way not only ensures access to important assets but can also help loved ones manage practical matters such as closing accounts, settling bills, and even notifying institutions of the death. There are ways that you can update your online accounts with Apple iPhone by using the ‘legacy’ function in your phone settings, which will help you plan for the future.”  

The annual Will Aid campaign sees solicitors across the UK volunteering their time to write Wills throughout November, making it an ideal opportunity for people to get their wishes professionally drafted in a legal document, which will help to protect their loved ones in the future. 

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid Campaign Director, said: “By planning ahead, individuals can help ensure their online legacy is managed according to their wishes, and spare their loved ones from additional stress. 

“This year’s Will Aid campaign is the ideal time to talk to a solicitor, and ensure their wishes are clearly documented, giving them peace of mind that their loved ones will be spared additional upset and stress in the event of their death.” 

Will Aid is a partnership between the legal profession and seven of the UK’s best-loved charities.  

The initiative, which has been running for more than 30 years, sees participating solicitors waive their fee for writing basic Wills every November. 

Instead, they invite clients to make an upfront donation to Will Aid – a suggested £100 for a single basic Will and £180 for a pair of basic ‘mirror’ Wills. 

Appointments are available now, and you can sign up by visiting www.willaid.org.uk  

Donations to the campaign are shared by Will Aid’s partner charities, which operate both here in the UK and around the world. 

For more information on Will Aid and how to get involved visit www.willaid.org.uk  

 Two-thirds of Edinburgh adults without an up-to-date will, charity warns

A staggering 68% of adults in Edinburgh either don’t have a Will or have one that’s out-of-date, a national Will-writing charity has revealed. 

Will Aid’s poll, which surveyed more than 2,000 people across the country, found 57% in the city haven’t made a Will, and 11% admitted theirs did not reflect their current wishes. 

Nationally, the figures showed 56% of people haven’t made a Will, with a further 11% whose Will is out of date. 

Financial pressures seem to be holding people back – with 21% citing the cost of instructing a solicitor as the reason they haven’t sorted a Will. 

Other reasons included believing they had nothing worth leaving (27%), never finding the time (18.5%), feeling uncomfortable talking about death (16%) and concerns about the process being too complicated (16%). 

Nationally, the average time since people last updated their Wills is six years, with nearly 20% admitting they’ve never updated theirs.  

Only a third (34%) of those surveyed have updated their Will in the past three years.  

Parents with children over 18 last updated their Wills an average of seven and a half years ago, while those with under 18s averaged four and a half years. 

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid Campaign Director, said: “Making a Will is a final loving act for those you care about. It provides a clear plan and guidance for your family after you’re gone.  

“We know thinking about death is uncomfortable and considering your final wishes can be daunting, but not having one can lead to confusion and distress among family members and beneficiaries, at an already upsetting time. 

“The statistics on outdated Wills are worrying, because circumstances change, and it’s crucial to keep your documents up to date to ensure they reflect your current situation. 

“Having a Will is essential for ensuring your wishes are respected and providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones and keeping that document up to date is vital, especially when circumstances in your life change. 

“Common reasons for updating your Will might include the death of a relative, divorce or separation, having children or gaining stepchildren. We advise you to regularly review your Will to make sure it still outlines your wishes. 

“Will Aid is the perfect opportunity to have your Will professionally drawn up or to have it updated, while supporting charities that help some of the most vulnerable people in the UK and abroad. 

“Getting your Will drafted by a solicitor is the safest way to ensure it is done correctly and legally.  

“This year, you can finally tick that task off your to-do list by securing an appointment with a participating Will Aid solicitor – it can be an in-person meeting  if there is a participating firm near you, otherwise you will be offered firms that can do it remotely, so wherever you are in the UK, you can get your affairs in order through Will Aid this year. 

“It’s a straightforward and easy process, allowing you to secure your family’s future while supporting to important causes.” 

The annual Will Aid campaign sees solicitors across the UK volunteering their time to write Wills throughout November. 

Will Aid is a partnership between the legal profession and seven of the UK’s best-loved charities.  

The initiative, which has been running for more than 30 years, sees participating solicitors waive their fee for writing basic Wills every November. 

Instead, they invite clients to make a voluntary donation to Will Aid – a suggested £100 for a single basic Will and £180 for a pair of basic ‘mirror’ Wills. 

Appointments are available from September 2, and you can sign up by visiting www.willaid.org.uk  

Donations to the campaign are shared by Will Aid’s partner charities, which operate both here in the UK and around the world. 

For more information on Will Aid and how to get involved visit:

www.willaid.org.uk. 

Edinburgh law firm raises £6,825 for charity campaign

An Edinburgh law firm has raised an incredible £6,825 by participating in an annual charity will-writing campaign – making it one of the highest donating firms across the UK this year and the fifth highest in Scotland. 

McEwan Fraser Legal has taken part in the Will Aid campaign since 2019, raising a grand total of £12,755, by volunteering their time and expertise to write wills and, instead of charging their usual fees for writing basic Wills, inviting clients to make a donation to Will Aid.  

The money raised is shared between the campaign’s partner charities, which work across many different causes in the UK and across the world.  

Ken McEwan, from the firm, said: “The entire team is very proud to take part in Will Aid and we’re delighted to have given so many people the reassurance of knowing they have a professionally written will. 

“We love taking part in the campaign and to raise so much for charity was a real team effort. 

“It’s a brilliant feeling to know that such well-deserving charities will benefit, helping people both here in the UK and abroad who are facing challenging times.” 

The generosity of solicitors who have taken part in Will Aid since it launched in 1988 has helped raise more than £24 million for charity in donations alone, with many millions more in pledged charitable legacies.  

Jonathan Chase, chair of Will Aid, said: “Huge congratulations to the team at McEwan Fraser Legal for raising such a staggering amount this year.

“It’s amazing that so many solicitors give their time to volunteer so generously, using their expertise to help people gain peace of mind by getting a professionally written will while fundraising for our incredible charities who do such crucial and life-changing work in the UK and around the world. 

“On behalf of all the partner charities, a massive thank you and well done to McEwan Fraser Legal and all the firms who have taken part this year!” 

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid’s campaign director, added: “What a great team effort from everyone who has taken part in this year’s Will Aid campaign. Thank you to everyone who has harnessed their expertise and generosity to give their time, helping to protect people’s wishes and also supporting such worthwhile partner charities who are changing lives for the better.” 

Will Aid takes place every November and involves solicitors waiving the fee for writing a basic will and instead inviting clients to make an upfront donation to Will Aid.  

The suggested donation for a basic single Will is £100, and £180 for a pair of mirror Wills.   

Donations are shared between Will Aid’s partner charities, which include Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, SCIAF and Trócaire.  

To meet the continued demand each year, Will Aid needs more solicitors to take part. For more information, please visit: www.willaid.org.uk  

Edinburgh residents urged to take advantage of 2023 Will Writing campaign

Residents in Edinburgh are being urged to secure their spot this month to have a Will written to protect their families’ assets and inheritance during this year’s Will Aid campaign.  

During the current cost-of-living crisis, the Will Aid scheme, which sees solicitors across the UK volunteering their time to write Wills throughout November, represents a great opportunity to tick writing your Will off your to-do-list, and ensure your family’s future is protected. 

The annual nationwide fundraising campaign shares its proceeds between nine of the UK’s leading charities: ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, Sightsavers, SCIAF (Scotland) and Trocaire (N. Ireland). 

Will Aid is open and appointments are now available with MHD Law and McEwan Fraser Legal. There are also several firms that can take your instruction remotely, so wherever you are you can get your Will written through Will Aid this year. 

Visit www.willaid.org.uk to find your solicitor, but hurry as bookings will close at the end of November. 

Like previous years there is expected to be a high demand, so people are encouraged to book an appointment now with a participating solicitor, which they can find via the Will Aid website.  

Will Aid has been running since 1988 and is open to all adults. The campaign has encouraged more than 350,000 people to write their Will with a regulated and insured solicitor and, in so doing has raised over £24 million in donations, and many millions more in pledged legacies. The suggested voluntary donation is £100 for a single Will and £180 for a pair of mirror Wills. 

Peter de Vena Franks, Campaign Director for Will Aid, said: “The money raised each year is incredibly important for each of our partner charities. It was inspiring to see our committed solicitors, continue to volunteer their time to raise vital funds last year. 

“I encourage anyone who does not yet have a Will to use this opportunity to protect loved ones and causes close to them, while supporting nine of the UK’s best-loved charities.” 

Jonathan Chase, Chair of Will Aid, added: “We are very grateful to all the solicitors, new and returning, who selflessly volunteer their time to write thousands of Wills without their normal fee each year. 

Not only does their philanthropy help thousands of local people protect their loved ones and causes close to them with a professionally written Will, but it also helps the Will Aid partner charities continue their life-changing work.”