Leave a legacy
Plan for the future and let your love of animals live on. Request our guide to leaving a gift in your Will.
Using our Wills services you can ensure that after you’re gone, your loved ones will be cared for and you can support animals in need.
Many of you will be lifelong lovers of animals and supporters of charities that care for them. Did you know you can continue to provide for the unwanted pets of the world after you are gone?
It is important to make a Will so that you can provide for your loved ones after your lifetime, and be assured that your wishes will be carried out. When making your Will it is also a good time to think about causes that are important to you.
Legacy giving, or leaving a gift in your Will, to Cheltenham Animal Shelter is a wonderful way of ensuring your love for animals lives on. Legacy gifts account for almost a third of our income, and without them we would not be able to care for all the animals that come to us each year. Of course we all have priorities, such as family and loved ones, but once you have made provision for them you may wish to consider leaving a specific sum or gift, or a share of the remainder of your estate to the Shelter so that we can continue to care for animals in the future.
Frequently asked questions about leaving a legacy
Below are some frequently asked questions you may wish to consider, before you make or change your Will.
What type of gift can I leave?
We understand that of course you will want to look after family and friends in your Will, but there are a number of ways you could include a gift to provide for the animals after you are gone.
Residuary legacy
This means you leave the remainder of your estate, minus any other gifts and costs, to a beneficiary.
Pecuniary legacy
A fixed sum, the value of which can be amended as your financial situation changes.
Specific legacy
You have the option of bequeathing a particular item to charity, for example a piece of jewellery or property.
Residuary legacy in Trust
You can choose to leave assets, for example a property, for the care of a loved one for the duration of their life. When they no longer require assistance the remainder of your legacy will be passed to your chosen recipient.
How can I amend my existing Will?
We strongly recommend speaking to your solicitor about your wishes, or you can use one of our Wills services to make your Will. Although there is no obligation to leave a gift to Cheltenham Animal Shelter, many people choose to do so.
We offer the chance to make a simple Will in person with a solicitor at no cost to you, through our partnership with the National Free Wills Network, or if you prefer to have a home visit you can use our partners The Goodwill Partnership and have your Will made by a professional at a reduced cost.
Benefits of leaving a legacy to charity
As well as continuing your support of charity, leaving a legacy gift can also benefit your loved ones. Some donations will be tax exempt and may also help to reduce any Inheritance Tax due from your estate. For further information on up to date inheritance tax issues please seek professional advice.
What about my own pets?
Do you worry what would happen to your pet in the event of your death? Who would look after them? Would they be provided for?
Cheltenham Animal Shelter can provide you with the peace of mind that, in the event of this unfortunate circumstance, your pet would be cared for.
Simply register with our Pet Care scheme and update your Will to reflect your wishes. It is advisable to let someone close to you know that you would like your pet to come into our care in the event of your death so that we can help your beloved pet as soon as possible.
If you have any questions about our Wills services or Pet Care scheme, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01242 548775 or email [email protected]. You are welcome to let us know your intentions, and any information you provide will be treated in the strictest confidence.