Hywel Dda Charities Launches Make Your Will Month with Local Solicitors

Hywel Dda Health Charities has partnered with local solicitors in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Ceredigion to offer a unique opportunity for individuals to write or update their wills during Make Your Will Month, running from May 1 to May 31. This initiative allows supporters to access will-writing services at significantly reduced rates, with participating solicitors waiving their usual fees in exchange for donations to the charity.

The month-long campaign aims to encourage those without a will to create one, while also prompting individuals with existing wills to consider updates. The charity requests a minimum donation of £110 for a single will and £195 for a mirror will, ensuring that participants can reflect their personal wishes and support their local NHS charity.

Community Impact and Legacy

Participating solicitors include DPA Law, Powell Davies Solicitors, and Price & Kelway. Rachel Hughes, a Partner at DPA Law, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Make Your Will Month is a fantastic opportunity to plan for the future. By making a will, you can ensure your family and friends are provided for, as well as the causes you really care about.” She also noted that for those with existing wills, this is an ideal time to make necessary changes due to life events such as births, bereavements, or changes in marital status.

The impact of leaving a legacy is exemplified by the late Dr. Harrison, a consultant anaesthetist at Glangwili Hospital from the 1960s to the 1990s. Dr. Harrison’s generous legacy has funded equipment and initiatives that enhance patient care, such as scalp cooling devices for chemotherapy patients, helping them retain their hair during treatment. Ben Perkins, Dr. Harrison’s nephew, shared his aunt’s commitment to supporting the NHS, stating, “It was important to my Aunty to leave a legacy to the NHS to help ensure that patients receive the best possible care, and she would be delighted to see the positive difference her legacy is making for both patients and staff.”

Supporting Local Health Services

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer at Hywel Dda Health Charities, remarked, “This is a great opportunity to ensure your family’s future is secure and that your wishes will be followed through – and also to support your local NHS.” She noted that donations made to the charity will facilitate services and activities that exceed what the NHS can typically provide. Those who choose to leave a gift, regardless of size, will contribute to lasting benefits for their community.

The number of available will-writing slots is limited, and participants are encouraged to act quickly as spaces will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information or to sign up for this initiative, interested individuals can visit the Hywel Dda Health Charities website at https://hywelddahealthcharities.nhs.wales/campaigns/make-your-will-month/.