leaving a legacy

We are very grateful that people often remember Burrswood in their wills in thanksgiving for the help they have received. Their generosity reaches out to bless future generations.

Why make a will?

Making a will gives you peace of mind, as you decide precisely what will happen to your assets. Your will is one of the most important documents you will ever sign; if you do not make one, the law prescribes how your assets will be devided, which may not be what you would have wished.

What type of gift?

This should be discussed with your solicitor, but in summary the following options are the different ways of making a gift to a charity in your will:

• pecuniary legacy - the gift of a specific amount of money.  You can also protect its value by linking it to the Retail Price Index.
• residuary legacy - this is the gift of either the whole, or a part, of your estate after the deduction of tax, debts and administration expenses.
• reversionary legacy - leaving a reversionary legacy means that your spouse/partner can have the benefit of your estate whilst they are living and when they pass away it will revert to the charity.  This gives an assurance that your spouse/partner will be provided for during their lifetime.
• specific legacy - this is a gift of a particular item, such as a piece of jewellery or furniture.

Why make a legacy in favour of Burrswood?

Legacies are a vital source of funds and make a crucial contribution to Burrswood's ability to continue providing its special care to those who need it most. A gift to The Dorothy Kerin Trust will help to develop Burrswood's work, as well as provide funds to enable those of limited means to benefit from Burrswood's care.

Any gift to a charity such as The Dorothy Kerin Trust is completely exempt from inheritance tax.

'In Memoriam' gifts

When making your will, you may wish to write a note to your family or executors to the effect that donations to The Dorothy Kerin Trust at Burrswood in your memory would be greatly appreciated.

For a copy of our Legacy leaflet please contact our Legacy Officer, Richard Bown on 01892 865985 for further information.