Local solicitors back '˜Make a Will Month'

The annual fundraising initiative is being backed by more than 40 solicitors across Northern Ireland, including local firms Gray Magee, Reavey and Co and JW McNinch and Son.

Sharon Gorman, Legacy Officer for Northern Ireland Hospice, said: “Amazingly, two-thirds of people in Northern Ireland do not have a will. What we are aiming to do is highlight to people the importance of making a will and also keeping it up to date.

“Having a will not only gives a person peace of mind that their wishes will be carried out, it can also save family and loved ones a lot of heartache and stress at what is a difficult enough time.

“Many people also consider charity when making a will and Northern Ireland Hospice has benefitted from people’s legacies and generosity. Indeed, in 2015 one-in-five of our patients were cared for thanks to gifts in wills.”

Solicitor Elaine Magee added: “We would encourage members of the public to support Hospice’s worthy campaign. Writing a will is the most important thing you can do to protect your family and loved ones. If the unthinkable happens and you pass away without having an up-to-date will, your loved ones may face further heartache as they may have no choice over the division of your belongings and your estate would be distributed according to current legislation.”

During March, anyone making a will with participating solicitors will be invited to make a donation to Northern Ireland Hospice or Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice in lieu of the free service offered.

For details of all participating solicitors, log on to www.nihospice.org or call 028 9078 1836.