Leave a lasting legacy of care, compassion and community
Write or update your Will for free
For over 70 years, Abbeyfield has believed in a simple, powerful idea: that older people deserve companionship, dignity, and a warm place to call home. Founded by social reformer, Richard Carr-Gomm, who recognised that loneliness is one of the biggest threats to an older persons health and happiness, Abbeyfield creates welcoming spaces where no older person ever feels alone.
Through our partnership with the National Free Wills Network, we are pleased to offer our supporters the opportunity to write or update a simple, or mirror Will, free of charge using a local, qualified solicitor.
Your legacy matters
Legacy gifts part-funded Esk Moors Lodge, North Yorkshire, providing a purpose built sheltered housing community for all to enjoy.
After spending most of his life working and supporting his community, unexpected circumstances eventually led him to a local homeless shelter. Six months later, he found a peaceful flat at Abbeyfield, where he now enjoys spending time with neighbours in the shared spaces.
At 100 years young, Barbara recently moved into one of our care homes, where she quickly found a warm, welcoming community.
Barbara thrives on the daily laughter, friendship, and connection that defines life at Abbeyfield.
Gifts in Wills means we can continue to provide safe, warm homes and outstanding care for older people now, and in the future. According to The Office of National Statistics, over the next two decades, the UK’s older population will grow rapidly with the number of people aged over 85 expected to double by 2049.
How legacy gifts can help
Funding special activities, events or outings for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Providing specialist equipment and mobility aids so residents can live in comfort and with dignity.
Add extra comfort and beauty to gardens and indoor communal areas where residents can relax and socialise.
Help residents through unexpected financial difficulty, whilst ensuring our charity’s services remain sustainable.
How our free Will-writing service works
We’ve partnered with the National Free Wills Writing Network to offer our supporters the chance to write a simple Will for free, with the support of a local, qualified solicitor. There is no obligation to leave a gift, but after providing for loved ones, we hope you’ll consider us.
Fill out the enquiry form below to register your interest and grant consent for us to pass your details to the National Free Wills Network.
The Network will post an information pack directly to you. It includes a choice of six local participating solicitors for face-to-face appointments, as well as six solicitors offering remote video or phone consultations.
Contact your chosen solicitor to write or update your Will. Abbeyfield pays a discounted rate to cover the cost of a simple Will. (If your estate requires complex planning, your solicitor will discuss any potential fees with you in advance).
Established in 2008, the National Free Wills Network partners with over 330 charities and 1,000 law firms. Once referred by your charity, you can choose face-to-face or online appointments with a local solicitor, and the network has successfully written over 130,000 Wills to date.
Frequently asked questions
Should you decide to leave a gift to Abbeyfield Living Society, please consider the type of gift:
1. A share of your estate (Residuary gift)
A percentage of what remains of your estate after providing for loved ones and expenses. As it is a proportion of your overall estate, it adjusts naturally with changes to your wealth and financial circumstances over time.
2. A fixed cash sum (Pecuniary gift)
A specific amount of money chosen by you. This provides a clear, set figure for your executors to pass on to support our work.
We always recommend speaking with a qualified legal or financial advisor to decide which option best suits your personal circumstances.
Leaving a gift in your Will is a deeply personal decision, and you are under no obligation to tell us. However, if you do choose to let us know, it allows us to thank you properly, ensure we understand your wishes, and keep you updated on the work your future generosity will make possible. Whatever you decide, your privacy will always be fully respected.
Yes, absolutely. If you prefer to make or update your Will independently through your own solicitor or professional Will writer, simply provide them with our official registered charity details:
Using your own solicitor
If you choose to leave us a gift, simply share our charity details (below) with your professional adviser:
- Full Charity Name: Abbeyfield Living Society (a trading name of The Abbeyfield Society).
- Registered Charity Number: 200719.
- Registered Address: 17-19 Hampton Lane, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 2QJ.
The Abbeyfield movement is made up of many independent member charities across the UK. To ensure your gift reaches us directly without delay, please share these legally registered details with your
solicitor or Will writer.
Find out more about leaving a gift in your Will through your own solicitor.
Yes. You can choose to support our national work, or nominate a specific Abbeyfield home or regional project close to your heart.
You can also specify how your gift is used to benefit residents, for example for social events or to improve an indoor or outdoor space.
We simply ask that your gift remains as flexible as possible so we can adapt to changing needs over time.
Yes. Depending on the complexity of your current Will, updating an existing Will is included under our Free Wills Network offer. It is good practice to review your Will every few years and after major life events, such as marriage, buying a home, or changes in family circumstances.
Abbeyfield pays a discounted rate to cover the full cost of a simple single or mirror Will through participating solicitors. If your estate requires more complex legal planning, your solicitor will discuss any potential additional charges with you in advance so there are no surprises.
We’re here to help
If you have any questions about gifts in Wills, or our free Will Writing service, contact our friendly Legacy Team.
• Telephone: 0300 131 0777
• Email: legacies@abbeyfield.com
• Write to us: Legacy Team, Abbeyfield Living Society, Hampton House, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 2QT.
Our promises to you:
•We fully understand and respect that your loved ones and family will always take priority.
•We will always respect your privacy and the time you need to make important decisions.
•We will never pressure you, and you are always free to change your mind.
•We will handle any gift with sensitivity and respect.
•We are committed to using all donations responsibly, ensuring they make a real difference in the lives of older people.
Request your free information pack
Complete the form below to receive your free, no-obligation information pack from the National Free Wills Network:
Thank you for considering leaving us a gift in your Will
This information is intended as general guidance only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We recommend that you seek advice from a qualified solicitor or other professional adviser when making or updating your Will.