Remember A Charity

In 2003, English Heritage became part of 'Remember a Charity', a consortium of over 130 charities and causes promoting the simple idea that we can all leave the world a better place by making a charitable donation in our Will. This is an historic moment for charitable giving in the UK, as it is the first time so many diverse organisations have worked together for a single purpose. The 'Remember a Charity' campaign is supported by more than 600 firms of solicitors and 9 key industry organisations.

The Campaign has discovered that the number of charitable Wills began to fall in 2002 for the first time (even though 67% of the UK population support good causes with cash, time and dedication). With decreased legacy income, charities and causes face a future of saying no to many important projects that society and the environment would miss.

The solution is to let everyone know that making a donation in their Will, large or small, is as vital as it is easy. Normally it will take no more than 45 minutes to ask a solicitor to draw up the necessary paperwork.

"Legacies funded two heart research posts at a children's hospital and built new research labs for Cancer Research UK. Legacies are building the new RNLI Lifeboat College, and providing important restoration works, acquisitions of art and furniture and educational projects for English Heritage", says Theresa Dauncey, Director of the Remember a Charity Campaign. Joanna Lumley, a supporter, also comments "I have supported many charities throughout my life and am often lucky enough to see at first hand how much legacies are appreciated….It is so simple to include a charity in your Will and it really does make such a difference to the recipient".

The simplest way to help is to make a Will, or update your existing Will, to include a donation to a charity or cause that is important to you. Leaving a donation in a Will is a practical way to support charity for those who are concerned about their future finances as it is an indication of commitment rather than a fixed amount. This form of giving does not mean that families go without - far from it. But what you do leave will make the world a better place for everyone you care about.

As Magdalen Fisher, Director of Development at English Heritage, says, "English Heritage is proud to be part of an initiative that could change the face of giving in the UK forever. For many organisations legacies are a lifeline - without legacies good work would go undone."

We are very grateful for the legacies we have received, which are enabling us to fund restoration projects, acquire furniture and works of art for our historic properties, put on exhibitions, and pursue important educational projects.

For further information on leaving a legacy to English Heritage, or on the 'Remember a Charity' Campaign, please contact Alexandra Gow-Smith on 020 7973 3538 or email her on alexandra.gow-smith@english-heritage.org.uk