Legacies - Frequently Asked Questions

There can be a lot to think about when it comes to making or adapting your Will.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions you might have.

• Do I have to make a Will?
• Do I need a solicitor?
• Do I need to think about inheritance tax?
• Can I change my existing Will to include a gift?
• What if I can only leave a small gift?

...and for extra peace of mind, read our pledge to you.

Do I have to make a Will?

Making a Will is the only way to make sure your family and friends are provided for in the way that you want.  Otherwise, your exact wishes may not be carried out after you die.  It’s also important to make a Will to protect your loved ones from an unwelcome tax bill.

Do I need a solicitor?

No, but we’d always recommend that you use a solicitor.  It’s extremely important that your Will contains the correct legal wording.  We cannot recommend a solicitor, but the Law Society can help you find a suitable one in your area.  For more details, visit www.lawsociety.org.uk or call 0207 242 1222.

Do I need to think about inheritance tax?

There’s no tax payable on a gift left to charity in your Will.  It could even reduce the total amount of your estate that may be liable for inheritance tax.

Can I change my existing Will to include a gift?

Yes, simply ask your solicitor to add something called a codicil to your Will.  It’s also a good idea to regularly review your Will to make sure it’s up-to-date.  For example, there may have been births, deaths, marriages or divorce in your family since your last looked at your Will.

What if I can only leave a small gift?

Every gift we receive, large or small, can help transform the lives of people with Spina Bifida and Hydrocepahlus, so we’re always extremely grateful for whatever help you can give.

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Our pledge to you...

We understand that leaving a gift to Shine in your Will is a big commitment from you and one that we take very seriously.  Your Will is obviously a very personal matter, and everyone has their own reasons for wanting to help Shine. 

That is why we make a legacy pledge of our own to anyone who chooses to support us in this way.

• Shine promises to use your gift in the best way, to maximise impact and benefit as many people with Spina Bifida and/or Hydrocephalus as possible, including their families and carers
• We will always respect your privacy at all times and we completely understand that your Will is completely personal to you
• We understand that family and friends will always come first
• We recognise you have the absolute right to change your mind about any gift in your Will, at any time and for any reason
• You are under no obligation to tell us about your plans, but any information you choose to share with us will be treated confidentially and with the utmost sensitivity.  We would also love to be able to thank you personally
• We promise to keep you up-to-date with our life changing work in a way that suits you.  Just let us know