RNLI offers free Wills service throughout October

Free Wills Month gives anyone aged 55 and over the opportunity to have theirs either written from scratch or updated free of charge (T&Cs apply) by using participating solicitors in selected locations throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Anyone participating in the scheme is under no obligation to leave a gift in their Will but, is asked if they would consider leaving a gift to the RNLI or another charity of their choice.

RNLI fundraising director Jayne George said: ‘For generations the RNLI has relied on the kindness of its supporters who leave gifts in their Wills to fund the boats, training and kit that protect our crew.’

The RNLI is dedicated to saving lives at sea but as an independent charity, relies on the generosity of the public and the commitment of thousands of volunteers.

Last year, donations helped our volunteer crews and lifeguards save the lives of 374 people, while 6 in every 10 lifeboat launches are only possible due to the extraordinary kindness of supporters leaving a gift to the RNLI in their Will.

Jayne George added: ‘During Free Wills Month please join us. Your legacy is our lifeline.’

Having an up-to-date Will ensures your wishes for your family and friends and the causes you care about will be looked after.

To participate in the scheme, all you have to do is get in touch with the RNLI’s Gifts in Wills team by 31 October. Visit RNLI.org/FWMOct2020, call 0300 300 0214 or email [email protected] to be given the details of local solicitors.

For anyone who may feel uncomfortable seeing a solicitor in person during the Covid-19 pandemic, some solicitors offer online or phone appointments, so please check with the chosen solicitor. Alternatively, anyone aged 18 and over is able to write their Will online through RNLI partner Bequeathed at rnli.org/support-us/give-money/leave-a-gift-in-your-will/free-wills-service/online-will-writing-service.

Notes to editors:

• Free Wills Month takes place twice yearly in March and October, involving the RNLI and other charities. For more information go to freewillsmonth.org.uk
• The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations around the coast of the UK and Ireland, and they continue to launch to those in peril at sea.
• To support the RNLI’s lifesavers, go to: rnli.org/donate

For more information, please contact the press office on 01202 336789 or [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.