What you need to know to leave a gift in your Will
A Will is one of the most important documents you’ll ever write. It’s the only way to make sure the people and the causes you care about are looked after, and it’s where you can decide what happens to your money and possessions.
It's a way of making a tribute to a loved one you've lost to cancer
Why do people leave a gift in their Will to Cancer Research UK?
People leave gifts in their Will to Cancer Research UK for many different reasons. For some, it’s a way of making a tribute to a loved one they’ve lost to cancer.
It could also be a dedication to someone they know who has survived thanks to our research. It may be a way of ensuring that others do not have to face cancer in the future. Whatever your reason, your gift will make a longstanding contribution to our vital work.
What happens if I don’t have a Will?
If you do not have a Will or if your Will isn’t valid (e.g. your Will is not correctly signed or witnessed) your estate is said to be ‘intestate’. This means your wishes may not be carried out. Having a professionally written, up-to-date Will is the best way to make sure your requests are met.
Your gift will make a longstanding contribution to our vital work.
Make sure you keep a copy along with any other useful information
Who should write or update my will?
You can use a professional Will-writer or solicitor to write or update your Will to ensure it is validly written and witnessed.
If you need help you can reach out to your Community Legacy Manager who can offer support and answer any questions you may have. To find your local contact please visit cruk.org/legacies/contact
We also offer a Free Will Service for people aged 18 and above, which you’ll find information here:
Alternatively, you can contact the Law Society of England and Wales or the Law Society of Scotland, depending on where you live.
Legal guidance service
We understand that a significant change in circumstances can be an overwhelming time, especially with all the various legal tasks to consider, which can leave people unsure of where to begin. That’s why Cancer Research UK is offering the Legal Guidance Service to people organising their legal affairs. Working with a team of trusted solicitors to help guide you through these tasks, making the process as simple and easy as possible. Anyone using our service will get a free 60-minute consultation with a solicitor, will be able to write a simple Will for free, and will also get a discount towards other legal services they may require. This is a brand new service that is only running in limited areas at the moment. We hope to make it more widely available in the future.
I already have a Will. Do I need to update it?
It’s a good idea to review your Will to make sure it still reflects your wishes, especially if your personal circumstances have changed. Changes that affect your Will could include marriage, divorce or separation, a new arrival or death in your family, moving home, moving abroad or a change in your financial circumstances.
What are executors and how do I choose them?
Executors are the people you appoint to make sure the wishes expressed in your Will are followed. It’s best to name at least two people to do this job in case one is unable to act for you. You can choose friends, family members or your solicitor. It’s important to know that naming someone as an executor doesn’t stop them benefitting in your Will.
Where should I store my Will?
Your solicitor or Will-writer may offer to keep your original Will as part of their service. Make sure you keep a copy along with any other useful information, like pension and bank account details, that will help your executors fulfil your wishes.
You can contact the Law Society of England and Wales or the Law Society of Scotland, depending on where you live