SOLICITORS across the country are volunteering their time to write basic-wills for a charity donation.

The annual campain is being run by Will-aid to encourage people to get their will written whilst raising money for charity. It will run throughout November.

Jon Jacques, Chair of Will Aid, added: “We are very grateful to all the solicitors, new and returning, who selflessly volunteer their time to write thousands of wills without their normal fee each year. 

“Not only does their philanthropy help thousands of local people protect their loved ones and causes close to them with a professionally-written will, but it also helps the nine Will Aid charities continue their life-changing work.” 

Customers will be asked to make a  voluntary donation of £100, or a £180 donation for a pair of mirror wills.

Last year, the campaign raised over £655,000 for charity provides people with an opportunity to get a solicitor written will in exchange for a voluntary donation to Will Aid. 

Solicitors taking part in Yorkshire include:

  • Goldmark Solicitors – Bradford
  • QC Law – Bradford
  • Eaton - Ilkley
  • John J Halliwell & Co – Keighley
  • Newstead & Walker – Otley
  • Beachwood Solicitors Ltd – Leeds
  • Brearleys Solicitors – Leeds, Cleckheaton
  • Carters Solicitors (part of Watson Ramsbottom Ltd) – Pontefract
  • Holden Smith Law – Huddersfield
  • Ison Harrison – Leeds, Huddersfield, Pontefract, Garforth, Ilkley
  • Morrish Solicitors LLP – Leeds, Pudsey
  • Oakwood Solicitors – Leeds

Like previous years there is expected to be a high demand, so people are encouraged to book an appointment now with a participating solicitor in their area, which they can find via the Will Aid website. 

Firms taking part include Eaton, Ilkey which raised £4,265 for the campaign last year. 

Since being launched in 1988, the campaign has so far raised more than £21 million for its nine partner charities: ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, SCIAF, Sightsavers, and Trocaire. 

Game of Thrones star Iain Glen has supported Will Aid for many years, he said: “Making a will is really about owning up to the inevitable. 

“We organise ourselves in life and so we should in death by clarifying your final wishes.” 

Thinking about death can be daunting for people but, for the Game of Thrones star, it took a weight off his shoulders. 

“I found making a will a happy, comforting, and cathartic experience. Knowing that you will be providing for and making things that much easier for your loved ones” he added. 

“Making a will with Will Aid brings you peace of mind while supporting nine of the UK’s most treasured charities.” 

Peter de Vena Franks, Campaign Director for Will Aid, said: “The money raised each year is incredibly important for each of our partner charities. It was inspiring to see our committed solicitors, despite all the challenges, continue to volunteer their time to raise vital funds last year. 

“I encourage anyone who does not yet have a will to use this opportunity to protect loved ones and causes close to them, while supporting nine of the UK’s best-loved charities.” 

Those who wish to book a will can make their November appointments by calling 0300 0300 013 or visiting www.willaid.org.uk.