Published on: 16th March 2026

Charitable Giving in Your Will: Leaving a Legacy that makes a Difference

Planning for the future isn’t only about making sure your loved ones are looked after—it can also be an opportunity to create a legacy that continues to do good long after you’re gone. More people than ever are choosing to include charitable gifts in their Wills, recognising that even a modest bequest can have a powerful and lasting impact.

Why Consider a Gift in Your Will?

1. It’s a way to make a lasting difference - Many charities rely heavily on gifts in Wills to continue their work. These bequests often fund long‑term projects, research, and essential services that simply wouldn’t be possible otherwise.
   
   

2. Potential tax benefits - In many cases, charitable gifts left in your Will can reduce the overall inheritance tax bill on your estate. This means more of your money goes to the people and organisations you care about.
   
   

3. You can create a personal legacy - Your Will reflects your values and the mark you wish to leave on the world. A charitable gift can be a powerful part of that story—an enduring symbol of your generosity and commitment.
   
   

4. It doesn’t have to affect your finances today - A legacy gift is arranged now but given later, meaning you can support the causes close to your heart without impacting your current standard of living.

The Impact of Your Legacy

A gift in your Will—however large or small—can transform lives. It can:

• Fund research that saves lives
  
  
• Provide care, counselling, or support for vulnerable people
  
  
• Protect wildlife and the environment
  
  
• Enrich your local community
  
  
• Support young people, education, and opportunity
  
  
• Keep local clubs and organisations thriving for future generations

Deciding on a charity/charities to include in your Will

With 171,113 charities operating in England and Wales, it can be difficult to decide. The best way to find a charity you would like to support, once you have passed away, is by looking at the Charity Commission’s website. This website provides a full list of charities in England and Wales. If you are unsure of what charity you would like to provide for, having a look at the Charity Commission’s website is a great place to start.

If you would like to speak with one of our Consultants to discuss any of the issues raised in this article or any other Estate Planning topic please telephone 01732 868190 or click here.

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