Make a Will during Gift for Life fortnight

Disability charity, Diverse Abilities Plus, has teamed up with five Dorset-based solicitors who are offering 50 per cent off making a will or amending an existing will during Gift for Life Fortnight from 8–21 September.

The charity that supports nearly 1,500 local children and adults with disabilities, and their families each year is appealing for those who take up this offer to consider leaving a gift in their will to Diverse Abilities Plus. A gift could help local children attend the charity’s specialist school, Langside, which is one of the top schools in the country for children with complex needs. It could also support children to go on short breaks and fun leisure activities where they will make new friends and learn new skills. Or it could pay for a nurse to provide vital support to children in their own homes.

Sadie Smith, the parent of James, 17, who has been supported by the charity since he was two, said: “Being part of Langside School has made a huge difference to James. He receives excellent health care at school and is provided with a stimulating environment that helps him learn. It has given our family a real sense of wellbeing; whilst he is at Langside or the short break home we don’t need to worry about him. The staff are so loving and caring, each child is special to them. As a parent that is the best we could hope for and is something we wouldn’t get in mainstream school.”

Nuisha Abab, Senior Fundraiser at Diverse Abilities Plus, said: “No matter how big or small, a gift in your will is an amazing gift from one generation to another and means Diverse Abilities Plus can fund life-changing programmes that provide a better future for those with disabilities, and their families, in Dorset. It is a vital source of funding for us as a charity and is one of the best ways that you can help us secure a better future for the people we support.”

For those who wish to take up the offer, an approximate guide of cost, after the discount has been applied, would be: a single will £75, rather than £150; a mirror will £108 – £135, usually £216 – £270 and an amendment to an existing will (a codicil) £50, usually £100. Costs will vary slightly between solicitors.

To take up the offer, please contact Nuisha Abab on 01202 718266 or email nuisha.abab@diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk.