The Wills and Probate team of Dorset law firm Coles Miller recently took part in Free Wills Fortnight, a national initiative encouraging the public to consider leaving a legacy in their Will.

The scheme, the first to be held in Poole, helped bring together ten major UK charities, including Barnardos and Breakthrough Breast Cancer, and offered members of the public aged 55 and over the chance to make a will or update their current one for free.

Organised by Capacity Marketing for Charities, the ten charities involved requested that those who took advantage of the scheme considered leaving a legacy gift to one or more of the charities, although there was no obligation to do so.

David Parfitt, Head of Coles Miller’s Wills and Probate department, said of the scheme, “We were very proud to be part of such a worthwhile initiative and were encouraged by its success. We received well over 50 referrals from the scheme. It not only gave people a chance to put their affairs in order but it was also an opportunity to support a charity at the same time”.

“It’s astounding how many people have not yet written a Will or if they have, simply do not keep it up-to-date. An up-to-date Will gives you much needed control and peace of mind over what will happen to your money and belongings, making sure that they pass to the people or organisations that you feel deserve them.”

All Coles Miller offices in Poole, Bournemouth and Broadstone participated in the Free Wills Fortnight.