Dove House Launches Make A Will Fortnight 2024 Initiative to Support Families and Secure Futures

During this time, the public will have the opportunity to write or update their basic will with the assistance of local solicitors and will writers who have agreed to waive their fees and encourage a donation to Dove house Hospice in lieu of payment.

Seven local firms are generously giving their time during these two weeks, these are Sills & Betteridge Solicitors, James Legal, Jaycon Legal Solicitors, Dutton Moore Chartered Accountants, Rollits, and Burstall Solicitors.

A will ensures that assets are distributed according to the writers wishes, preventing disputes and providing clarity for loved ones during difficult times. By participating in the 'Make A Will' initiative, individuals can safeguard their family's future and bring peace of mind, knowing that their estate will be handled according to their intentions. Whether it’s becoming a grandparent, purchasing a new home, getting married, or navigating a life-limiting diagnosis, life’s pivotal moments underscore the importance of planning for the future.

“We often think of wills as something to be done later, but life can change in an instant,” said Rebecca Brambles, Dove House’s Head of Family Support. “Our initiative offers an accessible way for individuals to take this vital step and ensure their loved ones are protected.”

Anna O’Mara, Partner at Sills & Betteridge Solicitors expressed “Sills & Betteridge are delighted to be working with Dove House Hospice Make a Will Fortnight 2024. Every adult in the UK should have a Will - this scheme gives us the opportunity to help individuals in planning for the future, whilst also contributing to the excellent resources that Dove House Hospice offer to people in need. We are very proud to be able to support Dove House Hospice in this unique but worthwhile scheme.”

Writing a will within this scheme not only supports a family's future but also helps to fund essential services that allow Dove House Hospice to continue providing critical care and support. 

Jonny Bottomley, Dove House Hospice Partnership Development Fundraiser, said: “We are incredibly grateful to all those organisations taking part in this year’s Make a Will Fortnight and are thankful to have the representation within Hull and the East Riding. The funds raised through Make a Will Fortnight have already had a significant impact, raising £84,000. This is amazingly equivalent to 638 nurses working shifts on the inpatient unit or in our Bereavement Services, providing 3,219 one-hour child bereavement support sessions.  This has provided ongoing relief to both patients and families who have turned to Dove House at a time of need, giving time for moments that matter to be lived. 

If you would like to discuss your will whilst supporting your local hospice, please request a Make a Will Pack through the Dove House Hospice website for more information. Alternatively, contact the Dove House Hospice Fundraising Team on 01482 785743 or email at fundraising@dovehouse.org.uk 

Participating solicitors

Anna O’Mara - Partner - Sills & Betteridge Solicitors 

Anna O’Mara, Partner at Sills & Betteridge Solicitors expressed “Sills & Betteridge are delighted to be working with Dove House Hospice Make a Will Fortnight 2024. Every adult in the UK should have a Will - this scheme gives us the opportunity to help individuals in planning for the future, whilst also contributing to the excellent resources that Dove House Hospice offer to people in need. We are very proud to be able to support Dove House Hospice in this unique but worthwhile scheme.”

Aimi Sugarman – Burstalls Solicitors

Making a Will is extremely important as it allows you to have control over what happens to your property, money and belongings after you die rather than what the law dictates. A will is also where you can set out gifts including charities which are close to your heart and/or help you and your family during your lifetime; the kind of funeral you would like; mitigates inheritance tax; makes provisions for children and animals; could avoid disputes between families and benefit unmarried partners and their children; and appoints someone you trust to deal with the administration and arrangements. 

The reason we are involved in this initiative is that we are all too aware of the importance of the services Dove House Hospice provide to those who are need it and their families. Most of us at Burstalls have had a family or friend who has been helped by Dove House Hospice. We have a shared value to be passionate, positive; professional and have empathy to those going through tough times. We want to help sustain the services that Dove House Hospice offers through donations and initiatives like this.  

We also ensure we consider and use Dove House Hospice to carry out furniture collections and house clearances to provide further donations by a service which is mutually beneficial for people like attorneys and executors.

Claire Ryder – Solicitor – James Legal 

Here at James Legal, we cannot stress enough the importance of making a Will. Although it can feel daunting, there is no other way to ensure that your money and property passes to the people you want it to. With the help of legal professionals and Dove House Hospice, making a Will is much easier than you think.  

The Make a Will Fortnight is a fantastic scheme, which we never hesitate to support. Not only does it raise awareness and funding for the amazing work they do at Dove House Hospice, but it puts people in touch with high quality lawyers to ensure that they have their own Will in place to protect their loved ones.