About the scheme

Who is behind the scheme?

The charities supporting Free Wills Fortnight work for a variety of causes - animal care, cancer research and support services, children, disability, older people, medical research, conservation and sustainable development, overseas aid and lifesaving. Their vital services protect and enrich our day to day lives.

Most UK charities depend on legacies for up to half their income - by taking part in this scheme you could help your favourite cause.

How does the scheme work?

Members of the public aged 55 and over contact one of the firms of solicitors taking part in a Free Wills Fortnight campaign at some time during the fortnight to request an appointment.

The solicitor will help to draw up a Will that accurately reflects the wishes of the individual or couple. Those taking up the offer are under no obligation to leave a gift to one of the Free Wills Fortnight charities, however, we earnestly hope that many will see this as a chance to help their favourite cause.

Having drawn up a Will the solicitor will ask for a confidential declaration form to be completed which will then be forwarded to us with an invoice for the agreed fee.

Do the charities get a copy of each Will?

No. The only documentation that is sent on to us is the confidential declaration form which asks questions such as where people heard of the scheme, their ages and whether or not they have left a gift to one or more of the Free Wills Fortnight charities.

What happens if a Will is complicated?

Most Wills are straightforward, but if a Will turns out to be complex the solicitor can apply for the costs of his extra work to be met by the Free Wills Scheme, or you may choose to pay the balance yourself.

Who is the scheme open to?

Individuals or couples aged 55 and over. In the case of couples making 'mirror' Wills, it is sufficient that one has reached the age of 55.

When is the scheme open?

Free Wills Fortnight takes place in specific cities and towns within the UK each year. Notification of the areas covered by the scheme is provided through this website 2 to 3 weeks prior to each campaign.