LEGAL experts are again showing a will to help a good cause as they renew an offer to raise money for charity
Solicitors in Darlington have re-pledged their time and support to offer a free will writing service in return for a donation to St Teresa’s Hospice.
Supporters are being invited to make a voluntary contribution of £80 for a single will and £150 for a double one during the hospice’s Make a Will Fortnight, Until October 13.
Chief executive of St Teresa’s Hospice, Darlington, Jane Bradshaw said: “When we launched scheme early this year it raised £1,114. But more importantly people who took part spoke of the value of putting their affairs in order.
“It is so important to have a will, if you don’t you run the risk of not ensuring your loved ones are provided for after your death and you may also leave them the stress of coping with a host of legal complications.”
Legacies form a key part of the on-going funding of St Teresa's Hospice. Gifts help the hospice continue vital services in Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire.
All legacies received are spent locally, benefiting local people and to date have helped St Teresa’s Hospice improve its gardens, furnish patient rooms, contribute to its volunteer driving service, fund its education programme, extend and improve its buildings and make substantial contributions towards running costs and service development.
Participating solicitors BHP Law, Macks Solicitors, Hewitts Solicitors and McGarry & Co, will offer clients a free appointment during the period to make or amend any will.
When making an appointment, supporters should inform the solicitor that they would like to support the St Teresa’s Hospice’s Make a Will Fortnight.
Helen Biglin, a partner at BHP Law, said: “We are delighted to be taking part once again both to raise awareness of the importance of having an up-to-date will and, of course, to support St Teresa’s Hospice, whose staff and volunteers do an incredible job in our community. It’s a great initiative that encourages people to take action, sorting out their will while, at the same time, donating to hospice services.”
Michael McGarry, of McGarry & Co said: “After the holiday season, people often focus the mind on putting affairs in order so this St Teresa’s initiative is the ideal opportunity for people to do so and help the hospice at the same time.”
Lynda Monks, of Macks Solicitors said: “We saw around 20 clients last time so are hoping that even more people get involved this year. St Teresa’s is so important to Darlington and the district.”
Darren Brown, of Hewitts Solicitors, added: “St Teresa’s is a wonderful local charity and all of the people involved do an incredible job.”
Appointments can be arranged in advance of the campaign at Macks Solicitors on (01325) 389800; Hewitts Solicitors on (01325) 468573 or email louisehoar@hewitts.co.uk; McGarry & Co (01833) 600160 (Barnard Castle), 01969 666290 (Hawes); BHP Law on (01325) 466794 or by email to helenb@bhplaw.co.uk.
Anyone interested in the service should visit www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk for an up to date list.
For further information about leaving a gift to St Teresa's Hospice and to obtain a copy of the Guide to Making and Changing a Will, contact the hospice on (01325) 254321 or email enquiries@darlingtonhospice.org.uk.