March is Free Wills Month, the national campaign offering people aged 55 and over the chance to have a simple will written or updated free of charge.
Jim Emsley, Founder of Bristol-based ELM Legal Services, is calling on people across the South West to seize the opportunity, warning that too many families in are left struggling when loved ones pass away without a valid will.
The impact on families is very real, according to Jim. “Here in Bristol and across the South West, I see first-hand the distress families go through when there is no will. It often leads to unnecessary conflict, financial complications and delays in winding up an estate. Free Wills Month is a golden opportunity for people to put their affairs in order at no cost. My message is clear: don’t put it off.”
The Local Picture
Nationally, more than half of UK adults do not have a will. In the South West, thousands of households risk being caught out by intestacy rules that dictate how estates are divided if no valid will exists.
For example, with Bristol’s growing population and high number of family households, the absence of a clear will can cause significant strain on relatives already dealing with grief.
Supporting Local Charities
Free Wills Month is not just about protecting families or generating new business for the ELM team; it also helps to strengthen community causes. Many people who take part choose to leave a gift to charity in their will, supporting the work of organisations close to home.
Through its involvement, ELM Legal Services has been able to highlight and encourage support for local charities, including Jessie May Children’s Hospice and Bristol Animal Rescue. Jim added: “We’re proud that Free Wills Month not only gives peace of mind to families but also helps shine a light on brilliant local charities. Legacies left through wills are a lifeline for groups like Jessie May and Bristol Animal Rescue, ensuring their work continues for years to come.”
Why Acting Now Matters
Peace of mind for loved ones: A will ensures your wishes are followed and your family avoids unnecessary disputes.
Reflecting life changes: Marriages, divorces, children and property changes all make old wills out of date.
A rare free offer: Free Wills Month places are limited and allocated on a first-come basis. Delaying can mean missing out.
About ELM Legal Services
Founded in Bristol, ELM Legal Services has helped more than 45,000 families across England and Wales with will writing and estate planning, over 26 years. Services include: simple and complex wills, trusts, inheritance tax planning, lasting powers of attorney, secure document storage and regular reviews.
What to do Next
If your needs are more complex or you would like local, face-to-face support, contact ELM Legal Services in Bristol at www.elm-online.co.uk.
ENDS
Media Contact:
Danielle Windecker-Hilton
danielle@sycamorecommunications.co.uk
07704.763269
The impact on families is very real, according to Jim. “Here in Bristol and across the South West, I see first-hand the distress families go through when there is no will. It often leads to unnecessary conflict, financial complications and delays in winding up an estate. Free Wills Month is a golden opportunity for people to put their affairs in order at no cost. My message is clear: don’t put it off.”
The Local Picture
Nationally, more than half of UK adults do not have a will. In the South West, thousands of households risk being caught out by intestacy rules that dictate how estates are divided if no valid will exists.
For example, with Bristol’s growing population and high number of family households, the absence of a clear will can cause significant strain on relatives already dealing with grief.
Supporting Local Charities
Free Wills Month is not just about protecting families or generating new business for the ELM team; it also helps to strengthen community causes. Many people who take part choose to leave a gift to charity in their will, supporting the work of organisations close to home.
Through its involvement, ELM Legal Services has been able to highlight and encourage support for local charities, including Jessie May Children’s Hospice and Bristol Animal Rescue. Jim added: “We’re proud that Free Wills Month not only gives peace of mind to families but also helps shine a light on brilliant local charities. Legacies left through wills are a lifeline for groups like Jessie May and Bristol Animal Rescue, ensuring their work continues for years to come.”
Why Acting Now Matters
Peace of mind for loved ones: A will ensures your wishes are followed and your family avoids unnecessary disputes.
Reflecting life changes: Marriages, divorces, children and property changes all make old wills out of date.
A rare free offer: Free Wills Month places are limited and allocated on a first-come basis. Delaying can mean missing out.
About ELM Legal Services
Founded in Bristol, ELM Legal Services has helped more than 45,000 families across England and Wales with will writing and estate planning, over 26 years. Services include: simple and complex wills, trusts, inheritance tax planning, lasting powers of attorney, secure document storage and regular reviews.
What to do Next
If your needs are more complex or you would like local, face-to-face support, contact ELM Legal Services in Bristol at www.elm-online.co.uk.
ENDS
Media Contact:
Danielle Windecker-Hilton
danielle@sycamorecommunications.co.uk
07704.763269