Between the 7th and the 20th of September, a number of local solicitors have very kindly agreed to give up their time for free to write or change a standard will. In return, they ask that members of the community make a donation to help families facing life-limiting illness.

Sarah, 49, who lives in Wimbledon said: “I have been putting it off, but after suffering a health scare earlier in the year I suddenly realised the importance of making a will. Now I’m taking control of my future and protecting my loved ones”.

To take advantage of St Raphael’s Make Your Will Fortnight, simply register your interest by contacting their supporter care team, who will send you a list of this year’s participating solicitors. You will need to contact your preferred one directly to make an appointment. All of the solicitors participating are willing to offer virtual appointments due to the current pandemic. If this is something that you are interested in, please let them know straight away.

If your will is not “standard” (i.e. involves tax or other specialised legal advice) the solicitor will advise you beforehand and agree a fee with you before going ahead.

St Raphael’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care to the people of Merton and Sutton. They offer home-based and in-patient care, wellbeing services and bereavement support to the people at the end of their lives.

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The Covid-19 crisis has forced the local hospice to close all of their charity shops and cancel major events. It anticipates their income will drop by £1.5m over the coming year. Knowing it costs over £6m a year to run it, they need your help more than ever so the vital work in the community continues.

There is no obligation to include the hospice in your will, but if you chose to leave a gift, be it large or small, it would be very much appreciated. Last year, the legacies St Raphael’s Hospice ensured that their staff were able to deliver vital end of life care in the community for 2 and a half months.

So, don’t put it off any longer as spaces are limited. Call St Raphael’s Hospice Supporter Care on 020 8254 2450 or email: supportercare@straphaels.org.uk

More information at: www.straphaels.org.uk/makeyourwill

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