IN A remarkable display of community spirit, Bartys, a branch of Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP (WJM) in Dunblane, has enthusiastically thrown its support behind nine vital charities by participating in the annual Will Aid campaign. With a longstanding commitment spanning 27 years, Bartys has been an integral part of the initiative, aiding in the drafting of basic wills for clients and choosing to forego their customary fees. Instead, clients are encouraged to make voluntary donations to Will Aid, with all proceeds directed towards supporting a range of essential causes.
To date, Bartys has raised an impressive £56,477 for Will Aid, reflecting their unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. This year, the firm is more determined than ever to surpass previous achievements and contribute significantly to the campaign’s charitable efforts.
Beth Hamilton, Head Partner at WJM Dunblane, expressed her enthusiasm for the cause, stating, “Will Aid is an exceptional campaign that offers people the chance to get a professionally written will while supporting important causes that change lives for the better both here in the UK and around the world.”
The Will Aid scheme, which runs throughout November, invites participating solicitors to forgo their fees for will-writing services, instead urging clients to make voluntary donations. The suggested donation for a basic single will stands at £100, while a pair of mirror wills is encouraged at £180. The funds collected through these donations are allocated to nine esteemed charities: ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, Sightsavers, SCIAF (Scotland), and Trocaire (N. Ireland).
Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid Campaign Director, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from firms like Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie, emphasising the significant impact of their contributions. He added, “More than half of UK adults still do not have a will, so this November is a great time to tick that task off your list while supporting the incredible work of our partner charities.”
This year, Will Aid conducted a poll revealing that 59% of UK adults still do not have a will in place, underscoring the importance of the campaign in raising awareness about the necessity of will-writing.
The campaign, which has been running since 1988, has successfully encouraged over 340,000 people to draft their wills with regulated and insured solicitors. In the process, Will Aid has raised over £22 million in donations and garnered numerous pledged legacies, making a substantial difference in the lives of those in need.
As the campaign continues, solicitors are encouraged to volunteer their time, ensuring that the vital work of Will Aid can persist. To learn more about making a will through Will Aid or to participate in the scheme, interested individuals can visit the official website at www.willaid.org.uk.
Bartys, along with other participating solicitors, stands as a beacon of generosity, exemplifying the spirit of community and charity that defines Dunblane and its residents. Through their collective efforts, these legal professionals are not only shaping a secure future for their clients but also contributing significantly to the betterment of society as a whole.
