Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Top 5 things you didn’t know about Wills

Posted: April 5, 2024 at 12:32 pm

Why planting a gift in your Will matters...

By including a charitable gift in your Will to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum you’ll be leaving a lasting mark aligned with what is most important to you and we’ve just launched our free Wills offer so making your Will won’t cost you a penny.

1. 63% don’t have a Will

Did you know that a staggering 63% of UK adults have not written a Will? That's a significant number, considering the importance of this legal document in securing your legacy.

We know that life is busy, and you might be putting off writing your Will until a later date, but we can help! In partnership with The Goodwill Partnership, we’re offering a will-writing service, making the process quick, simple and completely free!

2. 18% of Wills are done online

Interestingly, around 18% of all UK Wills are now crafted online, with people using mobile devices to secure their legacy.

Embracing this digital trend, we offer you the convenience of registering your details online. The Goodwill Partnership will then contact you to schedule your appointment, whether it be online, at-home, or by phone.

3. Younger people are making Wills

Intriguingly, the average age of Will-makers is decreasing, showcasing a growing awareness among younger generations about the importance of planning for the future.

A man carrying a woman on his back in a park, enjoying a fun and playful moment together.

Life can be unpredictable, and having a will allows you to make sure your loved ones and children are taken care of according to your wishes. Having a Will in place can provide peace of mind, knowing your affairs are in order as you intended.

4. There are three main ways to leave a gift in your Will

When it comes to the contents of Wills, conventional items like money, jewellery, and cars often take the spotlight.

There are three main ways that you can leave a gift in your Will. A residuary gift is a % amount of your estate, a pecuniary gift is a specific sum of money or a chattel which is an item such as land or an object. All gifts are important to us, residuary gifts tend to make the biggest impact.

5. People like to leave a good-natured gift

People are becoming more aware of their impact on the world beyond their lifetime, leading many to consider leaving a gift to causes including environment, health, overseas aid and animal welfare.

A young girl gazes at a majestic chestnut tree, captivated by its beauty and the wonders of nature.

Many of the gifts we receive go towards where it’s needed most to maintain the arboretum as a sanctuary for both people and some of the world’s most endangered trees. Alternatively, you may wish to support a specific area of the arboretum like Silk Wood or a theme of work like educating the next generation of conservationists.

Leave a gift to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

For many, Westonbirt Arboretum holds a special place in their hearts. Its stunning tree collections provide solace, inspiration, and joy to so many people. Whether it's cherished memories of past visits or a recognition of its vital role in global tree conservation, supporting the arboretum ensures its conservation for future generations to enjoy. Your decision to leave a gift reflects a deep appreciation for Westonbirt Arboretum's beauty and significance.

There's no obligation to leave a gift in your Will to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum. However, any contribution, no matter the size, will leave a lasting impact on the arboretum's future.

An elderly man enjoying the sweet scent of pink flowers in a garden.

As one supporter eloquently puts it, "Westonbirt Arboretum is my favourite place in the UK... It's a stunning landscape that must be preserved. That's why I'm leaving them a gift in my Will."

Don't delay in writing your Will today and gain peace of mind knowing that your legacy will make a difference.

Visit The Goodwill Partnership to book your free Will-writing appointment.

Learn more about leaving a gift in your Will to us…