Initiative encourages people to leave a charitable gift in their will

The annual initiative by My Legacy, founded by a group of Irish charities in 2003, involves solicitors and charities across the country and aims to encourage more people to leave a legacy gift to a charity they care about.

The MyLegacy.ie website contains information from solicitors on will-making, a list of solicitors that individuals can visit, and some of the great causes that people could choose to include in their will.

According to research conducted by the group, only 12 per cent of Irish people plan to leave money to a charity.

Just 30 per cent of people living in Ireland have made a will, while half have engaged with any of the practicalities around their death - from making a will to discussing wishes with their family.

Fergal O’Sullivan, chairperson of My Legacy, said the umbrella group comprises “almost 70 Irish charities who know the positive impact a legacy gift can have on the work of a charity”.

Bernadette Parte, solicitor at Parte and Associates, added: “Many Irish people are afraid to make a will; I think people believe that if they do they will be hit by a bus the next morning. In my many years of helping people prepare their will, this has never happened.

“Making a will is nothing to be afraid of and it will provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. A will ensures that your wishes will be clear and carried out after your death, and that the people and causes you cared about in life will be looked after you are gone.

“I would advise everyone to make their will today. It’s a very important personal document and Best Will Week is a great time to do it.”