Stephen Parr

Where there’s a Will, there’s a way to raise vital funds for a local charity, thanks to Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall Solicitors.

The firm is waiving its Will-writing fees in return for donations to Rossendale Hospice, in support of the charity’s annual Make a Will Fortnight.

The initiative coincides with World Alzheimer’s Month in September, which also underscores the need to have an updated Will in place to reduce the risks presented by incapacity in later life.

People without a Will, or who need to make changes to their current one, can have the legal work carried out, and help the hospice, by making an appointment at WHN’s Bacup, Rawtenstall or Haslingden offices between September 10-21.

WHN is suggesting a donation reflecting the cost of preparing a standard Will, which is £210 for individuals or £360 (£180 each) for couples.

Stephen Parr, who heads up the firm’s private client team and is a director at WHN Solicitors, said: “We are always keen to get involved in our community and this is why we are committed to helping charities that local people care about. We have supported Rossendale Hospice for many years as official patrons and will be continuing this into the future.

“Make a Will Fortnight enables people to ensure their loved ones are fully provided for in a current Will, while donating much-needed funds to an extremely worthy cause. World Alzheimer’s Month, which is also in September, is another important event that will hopefully encourage people to ensure their Will is up to date, in the event of incapacity later in life.”

Clare Richards, head of fundraising at Rossendale Hospice, added: “Make a Will Fortnight is a great way of prompting people who don’t have a Will to take action. By simply making an appointment you can obtain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your estate will go to the people you want it to, while helping us provide essential care for local people living with cancer and other life-limiting conditions.

“Rossendale Hospice relies on the ongoing support of the community whose generosity enables us to deliver vital services and meet the annual running costs of just under £1 million. You can also choose to leave a bequest to the Rossendale Hospice, which will support the lives of local people. Leaving a lasting legacy is just one of the ways you can support your local hospice and help other people in need.”

The hospice improves quality of life for people with life-limiting illnesses and provides a range of services such as: day therapy, hospice at home, a range of complementary and psycho therapies, bereavement counselling and a befriending service.

Make a Will Fortnight runs from September 10-21. To book an appointment contact Stephen Parr at WHN’s Haslingden office on 01706 213356, Catherine Hamilton in Rawtenstall on 01706 225621, or June Higgins at the firm’s Bacup office on 01706 874487.