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Wills faqs

Here are some of the things supporters often ask us about leaving a gift in their Will to our charity. Of course, if you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us using the details on the back cover of this guide.

Can I write my own Will?

We would always recommend using a solicitor or similarly qualified professional to draw up your Will. They’ll be able to take you through every step of the process and advise you on the correct wording to make sure all your wishes are expressed clearly.

What kinds of gifts can I leave in my Will?

There are three kinds of gifts you can leave in your Will. A pecuniary legacy is a fixed amount of money. A specific gift means a particular item, such as a piece of jewellery. And a residuary gift is made from the remainder of your estate after your debts have been taken care of and any other specified gifts to your loved ones have been made.

Is there a minimum amount I need to be able to leave in my Will?

No. We know that everyone’s circumstances are different and are incredibly grateful for anything you choose to donate. Gifts of all shapes and sizes make an enormous difference to our work.

Could leaving a gift in my Will to charity reduce my inheritance tax liability?

Yes. If your estate is above the inheritance tax (IHT) threshold, and you leave at least 10% of your estate to a charity, this will reduce your overall IHT liability from 40% to 36%. We recommend discussing all inheritance tax threshold matters with your solicitor or Will-maker.

What details should I use to include University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity in my Will?

Our registered Charity number is 1057366 and our registered address is as follows:

University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity
Royal Bournemouth Hospital
Castle Lane East
Bournemouth BH7 7DW