Legacies give team the will to overcome pandemic challenge
SUPPORT from legacies has helped East Cheshire Hospice overcome a challenging financial period.
Gifts from wills make up about a third of the hospice’s fundraising income. Donors usually leave either a fixed amount, or a percentage of their estate, in their will.
The hospice wants to thank donors for their loyal support during the Covid crisis and hopes others will help them in the same way.
The request comes as the charity prepares to host its Will Week from Monday, October 4, until Friday, October 8.
Beth England, Individual Giving Fundraiser, said: “There’s no doubt that legacies have helped get us through the last year.
“We’ve had to cancel fundraising events, but the one thing that hasn’t changed has been gifts left in wills.
“Fortunately, that income has been stable and hasn’t fluctuated and we’re extremely grateful.
“The last 18 months have shown how hard it is to predict the future and your gifts help secure the future of the Hospice enabling future generations to access our vital care.”
Around only a third of legacy donors let the hospice know in advance that they intend to leave a gift.
However, Beth would prefer that potential donors inform them a gift will be on its way eventually, hopefully later rather than sooner.
She said: “We realise it’s a sensitive subject and understand completely that many people prefer to keep their wishes private.
“However, if possible we’d like to be made aware of people’s intentions since it allows us to plan accurately for the future.
“Importantly, it also means we can say thank you and offer people the chance to see the hospice and precisely how their donation will provide future care.
“By supporting Will Week, people can also learn the most tax-efficient way to make a donation if they wish to do so.”
Participating solicitors are GPW Trusts, Moneybox Wills and Trusts, Stratford Solicitors, and Poole and Alcock.
Appointments can be booked directly and solicitors will waive fees in return for a donation to the hospice.
Solicitors will write a single or mirror will, or update an existing will.
Any other services are chargeable at the solicitor’s usual cost.
Some solicitors have limited availability for Zoom appointments which can be requested on booking.
FOR more details on legacies email Beth at bengland@echospice.org. uk or call 01625 433 477.