THE
LEGACY YEARBOOK
2026
2 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
THE
LEGACY YEARBOOK
Dear Readers Welcome to the 2026 edition of ‘The Legacy Yearbook’. We hope that this publication will provide an ideal reference point when choosing one or more charities to leave a legacy to. Also within the magazine you will find articles on the importance of making a Will and how leaving a legacy to a charity will extend help and kindness to future generations. Legacies account for a major part of the income of charities, however small, and we are sure you will find your chosen charity in ‘The Legacy Yearbook’. 2026 brings us to our 28th year of this publication and our website www.legacyyearbook.co.uk has now been running for over fifteen years. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the charities who have been with us over the years, many have remained with us since the launch. Finally, please help them to continue their important work by remembering the charity of your choice in your Will. You don’t have to be rich and famous to make a contribution that can make a difference. We can all do something amazing for the world just by leaving a gift in our Wills to charity.
Published by Amra Media Solutions Marash House, 2-5 Brook Street Tring, Herts HP23 5ED Email: info@amramedia.co.uk
www.legacyyearbook.co.uk Layout: Karen Wightman All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Although every care is taken to ensure accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within the magazine, the publisher cannot accept liability.
Features
Charities 2 6 10 12 13 13 15 16 17 18 20 22 22 23 24
The Importance of making a Will Making a Will is so important as it SSAFA – the Armed Forces charity is the only sure way that allows you to decide how you wish your estate Scottish Veterans Residences to be distributed when you pass. Epilepsy Society 8 Money and other worries – Little Sisters of the Poor and how to minimise them Key points that anyone with a Grace and Compassion Benedictines family should consider – and review from time to time – include Tiggywinkles Wildlife and life insurance, survivor pensions Teaching Hospital and mortgage protection. Replacing Animal Research 11 Lasting Power of Attorney A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) Redwings Horse Sanctuary allows you to appoint one or Bransby Horses – Rescue and Welfare more people to make decisions on your behalf should there Naturewatch Foundation come a time when you are unable Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre to do so yourself. Lord Whisky Animal Sanctuary 14 For the love of animals As a nation of animal lovers, it is Catastrophes Cat Rescue important to a lot of us to make Pain Relief Foundation MS Research & Relief Fund
4
To advertise your charity in the next Legacy Yearbook please email us: info@amramedia.co.uk Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 3
The importance of making a Will
To some people the answer to this question may be obvious. However, to many they will feel that it’s not relevant to them because they do not have any assets to distribute. Reasons people give for not making a Will is that they are not married, they don’t own their own property or they don’t have any children.
If you die without a Will, unmarried and with no children or grandchildren then your estate would automatically pass in the following order: • to your parents, or if none; • to your whole blood siblings, or if none; • to your half blood siblings, or if none; • to grandparents, or if none;
Making a Will is so important as it is the only sure way that allows you to decide how you wish your estate to be distributed when you pass. Aside from the risk of someone
• to uncles and aunts of the whole blood.
dealing with the estate of someone who died without a Will is much more complicated and costly. Members of the family left behind will be handed a great deal of unnecessary, time consuming, work that could easily have been avoided. In the UK when someone dies without making a Will, their estate passes in accordance to the Rules of Intestacy, which
If you don’t already have a Will, then seek out a solicitor who can help you in the process of making one. If you don’t have a solicitor, the following will be able to help: The Law Society – use it’s Find Solicitor advice in England, Wales and Scotland. The Law Society of Northern Ireland.
4 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
Finally, if none of the above survive you, your assets will pass to the Crown.
Leave a legacy in your Will Perhaps when you least expect it, the chances are a charity will assist you or a loved one at some point in your life. Charities are there for us all when we need it the most, and we need to ensure they continue their vital work for future generations. Many people believe that charities are well supported, well-funded and generally doing very well. Unfortunately, this is not often the case, and many struggle to survive,
Some charities are fortunate in owning or having had bequeathed properties, but as every house owner will know, the upkeep of any building will, in itself cost a small fortune. So just how do charities that do such exceptional work all over the country survive? The answer most will tell you is they depend heavily on the work done and income raised or donated by a loyal group of ‘supporters’. One of the main ways you can support charities long into the future is to leave a gift in your Will. However small, a legacy left in your Will to your chosen charity means you will be generations to come. Anyone can leave money to charity in their Will, but it can sometimes be a delicate subject when approaching family Many people are worried their children would feel cheated of their inheritance. However, one of the steps you can take is to talk to your family about your plans for your death, people are proud of their parents planning to leave a gift to charity once loved ones have been looked after. Many people feel it’s only the wealthy that leave money to charities in their Will, but this is not the case. The amount you leave to others or to a charitable organisation is entirely
your decision. There is no minimum amount you have to leave when considering a legacy, and you can, if you wish, leave a gift to more than one worthwhile cause. However, it’s as some charities have similar names and you need to avoid mistaken identity. The name, address and charity number should be correct otherwise the donation could be invalid. A legacy, in fact, can be anything you want it to be, not necessarily monetary. It could be a rare antique, a car, a piece of jewellery, investments in shares, land or property, anything that a charity of your choice would subsequently You can sometimes stipulate how your legacy is used within often they may not be able to use a gift in the way you intend, As well as helping a good cause, leaving a legacy to charity could also reduce your inheritance tax burden. A gift to charity is free from inheritance tax (IHT). IHT is currently charged at 40% on any estate worth more that £325,000. This means, in some instances, donating more to charity could actually lower your IHT bill, which could mean you This does depend on how much your estate is worth in the worth seeking expert advice before gifting to charity for the purpose of avoiding inheritance tax. • Pecuniary gifts – a set amount of money • Residuary gifts – a percentage, or the whole, of your estate
You will be able to discuss this with a professional advisor to make it clear exactly what you want to leave. Many people support charities in their lifetime and when asked many say they’d happily leave a gift in their Will, but unfortunately only a small percentage actually do. Making a Will is the only way you can have peace of mind, ensuring that your estate is distributed according to your wishes. If you don’t currently have a Will, then seek out a solicitor who can help you in the process of making one. In fact, your chosen charity may be able to provide you with a solicitor, sometimes at no cost or for a donation.
Leave a legacy in your Will and let charitable work live on Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 5
There yesterday. There tomorrow. Thanks to you. For 140 years, SSAFA has supported our Armed Forces and their families. You too can be there for them today, tomorrow, and always. Join SSAFA in honouring our past and shaping their future. Download our free Gifts in Wills booklet and discover how your Will can create a tomorrow where no one in the Armed Forces battles alone. Search “SSAFA Gifts in Wills” or scan the QR code.
Registered as a charity in England and Wales Number 210760 in Scotland Number SC038056 and in Republic of Ireland Number 20202001. Established 1885. 1060.1125
6 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
SSAFA is here for our Armed Forces – thanks to you 140 years ago, SSAFA’s founder Sir James Gildea made a promise to help those who dedicate their lives to protecting our nation, providing those who serve and their families with the support they need. The UK Armed Forces total around 181,000 people, and, according to the most recent censuses conducted, there
He was relatively lucky, because he had a tent, but even
immediate and dependant families is another couple of million people, so there are nearly 4.2 million people who form part of or are connected to the military community.
hard, painfully hard. Not just the living conditions, but the isolation, the loneliness, the lack of friends, the loss of that military family.
You, or someone you know, might be one of them. Any of them could turn to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity at any time and thousands do, in fact last year some 55,000 people came to us for help.
bus fare to pick up the keys. Then Nick found SSAFA.
SSAFA relies on the generosity of our supporters and thanks to those supporters, we can provide our vital services. With a gift in your Will, you too could help us be there for future generations of the Armed Forces family. The Armed Forces are a family that stands together. They support each other no matter what, and someone always has your back. But they face immense challenges both during and after their time in the Armed Forces. If they have physical injuries or mental health struggles, the transition to civilian life can be daunting. We know that there are serving personnel and veterans who – through no fault of their homelessness. These momentous challenges are made so much worse if they do not know who to turn to or how to ask for help. SSAFA is here to be the friendly face, the listening ear, and the helping hand for all in the Armed Forces family, from 103-year-old World War Two veterans to newborn babies and everyone in between, regardless of ship or squadron, regiment or rank, regulars or reserves. We are here to provide welfare and wellbeing support to those in need for as long as it is needed, across the UK and abroad. All tailored to individual needs, helping people get their lives back on track. One of those who sought help from SSAFA is Nick. Nick served in the Army – the Royal Tank Regiment – for 11 years. It was his dream. His military career was cut short by a medical condition, and he found life in the civilian world tough. Nick drifted from job to job, from house to house, never
the woods, in winter, in the snow.
turned empty rooms into a proper home, basic things such as a kettle, a fridge, a cooker, carpets. We connected him to other veterans, to help him rebuild his sense of community. We restored his faith in himself, and the people around him. But Nick’s story is not unique and SSAFA exists so that no one in our Armed Forces is left to battle life’s darkest problems on their own. When Nick called for backup, we answered. When he stumbled, we helped pick him up. When he was alone, we were there. Because no one should ever battle alone. With a gift in your Will, you too can help us be there today, tomorrow, and always, honouring our past and supporting future generations to come.
Download our free Gifts in Wills booklet and discover how your Will can create a tomorrow where no one in the Armed Forces battles alone.
Visit ssafa.org.uk/gifts-in-wills Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 7
Money and other worries – and how to minimize them about death, in terms of what would happen to their child. As children grow up, requirements change, but key points that anyone with a family should consider – and review from time to time – include life insurance, survivor pensions and mortgage protection. During their working lives, both partners in a relationship (married or not) should have life insurance cover if anyone, such as children, is independent on them or they are codependent on each other (for example, sharing household bills). If either were to die, not only would the partner survivor would lose the value of any unpaid work done by the deceased, such as childcare, laundry and home maintenance. A very common motive for life insurance is where a couple or single parents have a mortgage; this ensures the mortgage would of death. People without dependents, such as single people without children, do not normally need life insurance, since no-one’s Later in life, the need for insurance should be reexamined. By this stage, any mortgage is commonly paid independent. Where couples each have their own pension income, they might 8 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
of their partner’s death. However, due largely to caring responsibilities, many women have much smaller pensions that their partner. In that case, the couple should consider that the pension schemes of the deceased person would pay out a survivor pension or continuing annuity income of the survivor might inherit a remaining fund of pension savings. If that’s not the case or the amounts involved would not be the gap. However, be aware that the cost of life cover rises steeply at older ages. A note about debts, since this can be a cause for confusion. Where a debt is jointly held, it is invariably on a ‘joint and several basis’ which means that each person is responsible for the whole debt. In that case, if one person dies, the remaining borrower takes over the whole debt and responsibility for continuing the repayments. Where a debt is in the name of just one person, if they die, then the debt is repaid out of that person’s estate. If the estate is too
the estate left to be passed in, do not become the debts of anyone else. Life insurance is also sometimes used for IHT planning. At it’s simplest, life insurance can cover a potential tax bill either in lifetime gifts that become taxable due to death within seven years (failed PETs) or on the estate. Life insurance may also form part or more complex tax avoidance schemes – be aware that these could be challenged by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
Funeral plans Many people worry about funeral costs. Burial service costs
funeral directors’ fees but more because of disbursements
– payments to third parties including church, grave or crematorium. As a result, some people are opting for much cheaper ‘direct cremation’ with no funeral service. Either way, the cost can either be met by your estate or you might consider a pre-paid funeral plan where you pay now for 2 22 plan providers must be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Before handing over any money, make sure the company is regulated by the FCA by checking the Financial Services Register. Pre-paid schemes are usually linked to a particular funeral director, which you might, or might not, be able to choose. The funeral director must then carry out your funeral with whatever money is available in the trust or insurance policy. If that is less then they are charging at the time, that is their loss. Do check what is covered in the package you buy – there are usually exclusions. For example, the cost of cremation might be covered, but not burial. Because of the large increases in fees being charged by some cemeteries and crematoria, as well as the rising cost of other disbursements, a number of funeral plan providers are now restricting their guarantee on price to those services within the control of the funeral director. If you are considering this type of scheme, as with any other important purchase it is sensible to compare the the one that best suits your requirements. If you are interested in taking out a funeral plan, you might check out these providers: • Co-operative Funeralcare • Dignity Caring Funeral Services • Golden Charter Before making any advance payment, you would be wise to investigate what freedom you have if you subsequently want to change any of the details of the plan, whether you can get all your money back – or only a part. terms and conditions, together with full details of the
An alternative, but less satisfactory arrangement, is to buy a small-premium life insurance policy designed to pay out when you die. These are targeted at the over-50s and are sometimes marketed as funeral plans, although the money can be used for any purpose and there’s no guarantee it will be enough to pay for a funeral. (And your relatives will still have to make your funeral arrangements.) These are wholeof-life policies, which means you have to continue paying premiums until you die – and quite possibility will pay much more in premiums than the pay-out they promise. If you stop paying premiums, the cover stops immediately and you don’t get any money back. You do not need to have a dedicated funeral plan at all. Money can be released early from your estate for these costs. Moreover, funerals do not have to cost a fortune – there is growing interest in direct (also called simple) cremation with no service) which cost around £1,000 to £1,500 in 2024. Survivors in receipt of Pension Credit or other means-tested
to help with funeral costs, if there is no enough money in your estate. For details of eligibility and how you claim, see Help with funeral costs.
Dealing with a death A very real crisis for some families is the need for immediate money while waiting for the estate to be settled. At least part of the problem can be over-come by couples having a joint bank account, with both partners having drawing rights without the signature of the other being required. Sole-names bank accounts and joint accounts requiring both signatures are frozen. For the same reason, it may also be a good idea for any savings or investments to be held in the joint name of the couple. However, some accounts – such as ISAs – can only be held in a single name. Additionally, an essential practical point for all couples is discussed together and understood by both parties. A further common-sense ‘must’ is for both partners to know where important papers are kept. The best idea is either to lock bank to look after. When someone dies, the bank manager soon as possible so he or she can assist with the problems of unpaid bills and help work out a solution until the estate is settled. The same goes for the suppliers of essential services: gas, electricity, telephone, and so on. Unless they know the situation, there is a risk of services a delay in paying the bill. Add, too, any credit card companies, where if bills lie neglected the additional interest could mount up alarmingly. days (eight in Scotland). Your local registrar can be found at GOV.UK. Since the pandemic, deaths are registered by
in their paperwork ahead of your phone appointment. The registrar will give you:
Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 9
Another organisation that may be able to help you after a loved one has died is the Bereavement Register. This organisation has one aim: to reduce the amount of direct mail to those who are deceased. Coming to terms with the loss of a loved one takes time; receiving direct mail baring the name of the deceased is often painful and unnecessary. The Bereavement Register puts an end to such occurrences.
normally be emailed direct to the funeral director you appoint. • A unique reference number and contact details for the government’s Tell Us Once (TUO) service.
which there is a fee. You normally to each provider of pensions, life insurance, savings and investments that the deceased had. It is cheaper away than later. Registering a death is upsetting, and dealing with a death involved more paperwork and phone calls than a family wants to deal with at such a time. Thankfully, the government operates a scheme in most areas called Tell us Once. You have 28 days from registering the death to access the TUO service, using the reference number from the registrar. Having given TUO the required details, it will then pass them on to a whole range of government and local council services to deal with the deceased’s State Pension, tax, passport, driving licence, Blue Badge, and so on.
The Good Retirement Guide 2025 edited by 2 2 and reproduced with permission from Kogan Page Ltd.
SCOTTISH VETERANS RESIDENCES Scottish Veterans Residences (SVR) is a Registered Scottish Charity established in 1910 in reaction to the sight of Veterans sleeping rough on the streets of Edinburgh. SVR’s mission is provide quality support and accommodation to as many ex-Service/Merchant Marine personnel as possible, for as long as they need it, in order to assist those that are able to return to independent living. SVR operates supported housing centres in Edinburgh, warm, comfortable accommodation, great facilities and Whether in need due to poverty, advanced age, the Veterans live with dignity and privacy and get the help they need. You can help them too.
Please help us to keep supporting the brave men and women who served in our Armed Forces with a gift in your Will. Scottish Veterans Residences SC012739. 53 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BS
10 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
Lasting Power of Attorney As well as making a Will, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is also another important legal document that can help ensure your wishes are carried out. A Will takes effect after you pass, while an LPA takes effect while you are alive. Some solicitors consider this to be just as important as making a Will. A lasting power of attorney is a legal document that lets you appoint one or more persons to make decisions on your behalf should there come a time when you are unable to do so yourself. This can happen if you become ill, have an accident, or develop a disability. However, before doing anything it would be a good idea to discuss the options with the family or someone you trust to see what they think and whether they can help. This has to be done before losing mental capacity otherwise it is invalid.
either when you lose the capacity to make decisions yourself, or as soon as the LPA is registered. If no LPA is in place and you lose mental capacity, your loved ones will need to apply to the Court of Protection to become a deputy if they want to make decisions on your behalf. This can be a costly, complex and lengthy process. meaning your chosen attorney can step in straight away.
Knowing you have someone you can trust to make decisions in your best interests in the event you are unable to do so yourself can be very comforting, not just for you but your wider family too. In England and Wales there are two types of LPA, you can choose to make one for health both. In Scotland there are similar documents and property and a Welfare Power for health and welfare, and in Northern Ireland, there is just a Enduring Power of Attorney for property A health and welfare LPA allows someone to make decisions about another person’s health and care. This can include decisions about daily activities, medical care and where to live. The LPA can only be used when the donor has lost the mental capacity to make the decisions for themselves. It can’t be used to make decisions while the donor can still make them for themselves.
If you are having health issues, then knowing you have a LPA in place can take away an enormous amount of
authority to make decisions about your money and property. You can use an LPA to pay bills, manage bank
to leave until later in life. You should consider putting one in place when you draw up a Will. Often, we have no warning of when we might lose capacity to make
You can choose when your attorney can make decisions,
the sooner you will be protected. Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 11
Make your will for free with Epilepsy Society today. We’ve partnered with Octopus Legacy to make including Epilepsy Society in your will easy. A gift in your will could help us transform the lives of people living with epilepsy through our world leading research. Please scan the QR code to to find out more about leaving a legacy, or visit epilepsysociety.org.uk/gifts-wills Chesham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, SL9 0RJ Registered charity number 206186
12 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
Your legacy could help us do so much.
Your legacy could help us do so much more!
Little Sisters
Make your will make a difference...
Provincial Residence: St Peter’s Residence, 2A Meadow Road, London, SW8 1QH Tel: 0207 735 0788
Please don’t don’t forget forget the the Little Little Sisters Sisters of of Please the Poor Poor when when making making your your will will the
of the Poor
Registered Charity No. 234434 www.littlesistersofthepoor.co.uk
thethe Poor is aisCongregation withinwithin the Catholic The Little LittleSisters Sistersofof Poor a Congregation the
Legacy 2017:Legacy 13:59 13poor, Catholic Church which13/1/17 istodedicated toofthe service of the Church which is 2008 dedicated the service thePage elderly
elderly poor, regardlessorof nationality, regardless of nationality, creed. Foundedorincreed. France Founded in 1839 byin France in 1839 by Jeanne Jugan, established in Britain in is Jeanne Jugan, established in Britain in 1851, our hospitaller work 1851, our hospitaller work is carried out amongst the aged carried out amongst the aged in 31 countries on five continents, in 3112countries five and continents, with Homes inon Britain Ireland. with 9 Homes in Britain and Ireland. Within the of of ourour Homes, some of which includeinclude sheltered thecomplex complex Homes, some of which Within accommodation, we offer the opportunity to the elderly of the sheltered accommodation, we offer the opportunity to neighbourhood to share in the Home’stofacilities. is also the the elderly of the neighbourhood share inThere the Home’s facilities. is also the possibility families modest possibility There for families of modest means tofor avail of our of respite means to avail of our respite care service. care service. In providing total care we believe in enabling the Residents In providing total care we believe in enabling the Residents to fulfil to fulfil their physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs. their physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs. We have We have at heart to recognise their dignity, desire of being at heart to recognise their dignity, of being respected, respected, esteemed and loveddesire and their longing to feel esteemed and loved and their longing to feel themselves useful. themselves useful. With yourhelp helpwewe wish to respond to their for With your wish to respond to their need need for companionship, companionship, security in health as in sickness, until their security in health as in sickness, until their natural death, natural death, in a family atmosphere. in a family atmosphere.
The Legacy Yearb
You can can make makesuch suchaadifference differenceto toour ourwork workin incaring caring You for the the elderly elderlyof ofmodest modestmeans. means.The TheLittle LittleSisters Sistersof of for the Poor Poor respond respondto tothe theneeds needsof ofthe theelderly elderlyin intoday’s today’s the world in in Homes Homessuitably suitablyadapted adaptedto totheir theirneeds. needs. world
Of The The Poor Poor Little Sisters Of In The The Care Care Of OfThe TheElderly Elderly In
Registered Charity Charity Registered Number: 234434 234434 Number: (England &&Wales) Wales) (England
2a Meadow MeadowRoad Road •• London London •• SW8 SW81QH 1QH •• 2a Tel: 020 0207735 77350788 0788 •• Fax: Fax:020 0207582 75820973 0973 •• Tel: www.littlesistersofthepoor.co.uk •• www.littlesistersofthepoor.co.uk
www.littlesistersofthepoor.co.uk
All of the charities you see in The Legac Yearbook rely heavily upon public dona please help as much as you can, and d forget when responding to advertisers, please mention 'The Legacy Yearbook'. Thank you
Thank Thankyou youfor foryour your support support.
Legacy Yearbook 2017 page 13
Sisters of the Poor_1/4.indd 1
20/02/2019 10:43
CIO Founded in 1954 by the late Mother Mary Garson for the care of the old and frail, we run care homes in England and wide ranging services in India, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Uganda. The Benedictine family comprises of Sisters, lay staff and volunteers, and the elderly, sick and poor of all denominations. Your legacy could help us do so much more!
CIO
38/39 Preston Park Avenue, Brighton, E.Sussex BN1 6HG The work of the Congregation is inspired by Telephone: 01273 502129. Facsimile: 01273 552540 the conviction the foundress, Registered CharityofNumber: 1056064 Mother Mary Email: osb@graceandcompassion.co.uk Garson OSB MBE, that the frail and elderly need Website: www.graceandcompassionbenedictines.org.uk
not only a comfortable environment a care loving Founded in 1954 by the late Mother Mary Garson but for the of the oldhome and frail,where we run respect care homes in England and wideand family for their dignity ranging services in India, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Uganda. The independence is recognised. Benedictine family comprises Sisters, lay staff and volunteers, Overseas, the work haspoor been to include the and the elderly, sick and of broadened all denominations. poorlegacy and the sickhelp of all Your could us ages, do so with muchclinics, more! hospitals, school
of nursing, adult education, and nursery/primary education. The Sisters and their lay helpers are sustained by prayer and strong faith and love for those for whom they care.
Your legacy could help us do so much more Grace and Compassion Benedictines CIO 38/39 Preston Park Avenue, Brighton BN1 6HG Tel: 01273 502129 osb@graceandcompassion.co.uk www.graceandcompassionbenedictines.org.uk
Grace and Compassion Benedictines CIO 38/39 Preston Park Avenue, Brighton BN1 6HG Tel: 01273 502129 Email: osb@graceandcompassion.co.uk Web: www.graceandcompassionbenedictines.org.uk
Registered Charity No. 1187262
Registered Charity No. 1187262
Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 13
G B
Th fo no re
O sic ed
Th fai
Yo
L
Pr S 2 Te
w
T C re Je ca w
used for medical research. But depressingly in the 21st century this still is the case. There are charities whose sole aim is to end this practice, and who need funds and support. A legacy is one of the ways of making sure your love of gift in your Will to one or more animal charities ensures their work carries on. For those who care deeply about animals there can be no better legacy. However small, leaving a generation. Funds are also needed to help animal organisations in their research work, to improve diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease and injury in animals, enabling them to live happier, healthier lives.
For the love of animals Most of us want to feel that the time we have spent on earth has somehow made a difference. As a nation of animal lovers, it is important to a lot of us to make a difference to their lives. The most obvious area is animal shelters, a place where wonderful people who care deeply try to rehabilitate animals who have suffered, in many cases, horrendous abuse and neglect, with a view to finding loving, forever homes for as many animals as possible. We look at our own animals so safe and well cared for and can only be full of gratitude to the people who give their time and effort to help. Owning and caring for a horse or pony can be great fun and very rewarding. However, with the uncertain economic climate and the rising costs in feed, bedding, farrier and really struggling to keep their horses and ponies. As a result, many more are sadly being abandoned and neglected, putting a huge strain on the equine charities who work tirelessly providing them the care they need for a happy and healthy life. The David Attenborough series, Wild Isles, highlights the abundance of wildlife on these islands. Wildlife charities are there to help sick and injured animals, and in most cases always return them to their natural habitat. Knowing there or bird is something we must be proud of in this country as in some countries any kind of help for injured wildlife is totally unavailable. Wildlife overseas is also subject to abuse and cruelty mostly fur trade and animals being used for tourist amusement, the list is depressingly long. There are many British charities and organisations involved with helping these animals and bringing an end to these inhumane practices. All deserving of your support. It seems unimaginable to think of all types of domestic pets 14 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
Being an animal lover, you may at some time have had to have a much loved pet operated on and will appreciate the importance of ensuring animal hospitals remain at the forefront of veterinary medicine and vital up-to-date equipment is at hand, to provide care to thousands of sick and injured animals every year, as well as the training of veterinary personnel. We would be churlish, to say the least, if we didn’t state that money is what it’s all about, after caring for the animals, that is. But without that so vital ingredient, the loving care that all charities give to the animals in their care, or the continuation of research development, or the conservation of wildlife, would be impossible. but donations to charities in Wills can sometimes mean your family avoids paying inheritance tax on your estate, as a legacy to a charity is a tax-free gift. By contributing in this gift and the donor because legacies are not subject to Inheritance Tax. As well as legacies, many charities rely heavily on work done and income raised or donated by a loyal group of ‘friends’ and ‘supporters’. Sometimes when buying items such as theatre tickets, or a membership, there is the opportunity of adding a donation to charity at the checkout. Or if you have had a clear out and have items you no longer want, maybe you could have a car boot sale or sell on-line and any money raised give to a charity of your choice. Get colleagues/ family and friends involved in arranging sponsored events. Check your favourite charity’s website to see whether they’re looking for people to raise funds.
Most importantly remember to enjoy your fundraising, after all, no matter how much or how little you raise, your fundraising really does have the ability to change lives.
Be a hero for British wildlife e By leaving a legacy to Tiggywinkles in your Will, d, and you’ll be giving future generations of sick, injured, orphaned wildlife a second chance. Animals like this young hedgehog, rescued from the blades of a lawnmower, with three badly injured legs. Our specialist care saved this poor little hedgehog og from suffering and he’s now facing a brighter future. ure. Your kindness today will help to save the lives off our precious wildlife.
Find out more at Tiggywinkles.com/legacy legacy
or call us on 01844 292292 for a free, no obligation ation chat.
Help us help them. Tiggywinkles, The Wildlife Hospitall Foundation. hamshire, Aston Road, Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, 0460. HP17 8AF Registered Charity: 1200460.
How Gifts in Wills safeguard the future of Britain’s wildlife Every year, thousands of animals arrive at Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital in desperate need of help. Some have been hit by cars, others orphaned, poisoned, tangled, or injured by hazards in the modern world. Many come to us barely clinging to life. And yet, thanks to decades of dedication – and the quiet generosity of people who included us in their Will – Tiggywinkles is here for them, 24/7, 365 days a year. As one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world, our work is astonishing in scale. But it is also surprisingly fragile. Tiggywinkles receives no government funding. That means every bandage, every X-ray, every late-night rescue call, every hedgehog overwintered or swan rehabilitated depends entirely on the kindness of supporters. Among these, legacy gifts play a particularly powerful role. For many of our most vital developments, legacies were the couldn’t cover. From specialist medical equipment and Tiggywinkles to plan for a future in which no wild animal is turned away. In recent years, legacy support has helped us respond to the rising pressures facing British wildlife. Warmer winters have
left hedgehogs struggling, extreme weather has increased the number of grounded owls and exhausted migrant birds, and growing urbanisation means more collisions, more entanglements, more habitat displacement. As casualty numbers continue to climb, legacy income ensures that we can keep pace – scaling up facilities, upgrading equipment, and investing in training for new generations of wildlife carers. and mortar. Each gift represents someone’s lifelong love of animals, transformed into a lasting impact that continues long after they are gone. At Tiggywinkles, we never take this kindness for granted. We recognise that including a charity in your Will is a deeply personal decision, and are honoured when supporters choose to remember us in this way. Every legacy, large or small, directly supports the animals. It ensures that we To learn more about leaving a gift in your Will, please visit tiggywinkles.com/legacy or get in touch with our friendly team. Your love for wildlife could help protect Britain’s most vulnerable animals long into the future. Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 15
Your gift today could fund a brighter future, for animals and humans Remember Replacing Animal Research in your will. Visit replacinganimalresearch.org.uk/legacy or call 0115 958 4740 today
Replacing Animal Research is a charitable incorporated organisation with registration number 1176266 replacinganimalresearch.org.uk / hello@replacinganimalresearch.org.uk
Leave the old ways behind Planning for the future often involves considering the legacy you wish to leave behind. For decades, science has relied on methods that cause suffering to animals and often fails to accurately predict human responses. In Great Britain alone, 2.64 million experiments used animals in 2024. Worldwide, it is estimated over 100 single year. If you, like us, believe that does not need to be the future, together, we can build a better path, one that creates a truly kinder future for animals and humans. By including a gift to Replacing Animal Research in your Will, you are doing more than just donating; you are creating a future where innovative, human-relevant science is the norm, not the exception. You are championing the scientists and laboratories who are building a world where both human and animal lives are respected through truly innovative progress.
Leave a gift this year that will last for generations
projects, bringing new, human-relevant technologies like organs-on-chips to life. providing Summer Studentships for undergraduates to gain hands-on experience in human-relevant methods. high-level policy work, lobbying government and collaborating with regulators to reform standards. UK and beyond, training institutions and researchers on how to successfully prioritise and implement nonanimal methods. we need to keep advancing our work for as long as we are needed. Your generosity ensures that ethical accelerating progress for generations to come. Speak to us today about how a gift in your Will can empower a revolution in science. Replacing Animal Research, Cawley House, Canal Street, Nottingham NG1 7HR
Your legacy gift provides the comprehensive support needed to embed change across the entire Registered Charity No: 1176266 (England & Wales) 16 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
A safe home, the company of friends and a lifetime of care.
For forty years you have helped Redwings provide for rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules. We care for more rescued horses than any other welfare charity. It’s one of the things that makes Redwings special. The waifs and strays, the sick and aged, those that no one else will help are all welcome here. By making a gift in your Will you can ensure a horse with nowhere else to go has a future they can look forward to.
To find out more about including a gift in your Will to Redwings please get in touch: 01508 481030 • legacies@redwings.co.uk • redwings.org.uk/legacies Registered charity in England and Wales (1068911) and Scotland (SC045070)
Will you remember the horses at Redwings Horse Sanctuary? REDWINGS HORSE SANCTUARY believes that every horse, pony, donkey and mule has the right to a happy and healthy life, free of fear and neglect. The charity rescues neglected and abandoned equines from all over the country, giving them a safe place to live and providing essential veterinary treatment, rehabilitation and care for the rest of their lives. Indeed, the charity currently provides daily care for over 1,500 rescued residents, making Redwings the UK’s largest horse charity. Redwings is 100% funded by public donations and every donation helps the charity help horses in need. In addition to giving every equine the opportunity for lifelong sanctuary care, Redwings also has visitor centres around the UK, where supporters have the chance to meet some of its rescued importance of equine welfare. Gifts in Wills make up the largest proportion of Redwings’ income and the charity simply wouldn’t be able to function without them. Remembering Redwings in your Will is a wonderful way to support the charity’s work and leave a lasting legacy that will help horses, ponies, donkeys and mules for generations to come. Whether your gift is large future of Redwings’ residents.
To remember Redwings in your Will, call 01508 481030 or email legacies@redwings.co.uk Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 17
“By creating a legacy in our Wills we know that we are helping to build a better future for our equine friends.”
Having supported the charity since the late 1980s and fostering a companion pony, John and Jackie did not hesitate to remember Bransby Horses when they decided to create their legacy. “We know that Bransby Horses gives every equine the very best chance of a secure and happy future. We hope to be able to continue to visit the charity for many years to come and by creating a legacy in our Wills, we know that we are helping to build a better future for our equine friends.” By creating your legacy like John and Jackie, we can continue transforming the lives of equines together.
Create Your Legacy
t us c a t n Co ess to acc ee r your f ay od Will t
01427 788 464
BransbyHorses.co.uk/legacies Charity No: 1075601. Company Limited by Guarantee Registered in England and Wales No: 3711676 18 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
Legacy Yearbook 2023.indd 1
13/12/2022 15:48
Bransby Horses THE LEGACY OF JOHN AND JACKIE Legacies are a lifeline to Bransby Horses, with 75% of our income from Wills. This is enough to rescue 60 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules each year. Whether we have been a place to
“We decided to leave a legacy to them some years before. Having the privilege of sharing part of our lives with Timmy, it was even more important to us to be able to support other equines like him in the future. Every equine is given the very best chance of a secure and happy future, whether it be with a fosterer or at Bransby Horses itself. That is very
visit with family or something more, it is a very special thing to be remembered in this way. or are planning to leave a gift in your decision to leave a gift in their Will and through of fostering a companion horse they understand the value that their lasting legacy makes. “We have supported Bransby Horses form more than 30 years. When our horse Ben died, at the age of 32, we decided to foster a companion pony from Bransby Horses for Charlie,
Will to Bransby Horses, we would love to hear from you and thank you in person – 01427 788464 or email legacy@bransbyhorses.co.uk
We now also offer a Free Will service – contact us or visit BransbyHorses.co.uk/legacies
dedication given to every equine that comes to the charity. We have also fostered Bransby Cadfael (aka Timmy) for six years and he has brought us so much pleasure. Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 19
A legacy of kindness Leave a gift in your Will and help improve animal welfare for generations to come. Together, we can give animals the future they deserve. ank yo
01242 252871
legacies@naturewatch.org naturewatch.org/leave-a-legacy Registered office: 49 Rodney Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 1HX. Registered charity in England and Wales (1039679). Registered in England and Wales as a company limited by guarantee (02944372).
THE
LEGACY YEARBOOK
All of the charities you see in The Legacy Yearbook rely heavily upon public donations. Please help as much as you can, and don’t forget when responding to advertisers please mention The Legacy Yearbook. THANK YOU. 20 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
Every animal deserves kindness, compassion, and a life free from cruelty. Yet, every day, animals on the streets, and behind closed doors.
Your gift is their future
Foundation has been standing up for animals who cannot speak for themselves. From ending animal testing to tackling wildlife crime, from exposing illegal pet breeding to supporting welfare work in Ukraine and across Eastern Europe; we’re driven by world for animals. But we can’t do it alone. We receive no government funding – our work is only possible thanks to the generosity of people who care as deeply as you do. By supporting Naturewatch Foundation, you’ll help us: • End animal testing and push for cruelty-free alternatives • Fight wildlife crime and protect animals in the wild • Stop illegal pet breeding and promote responsible ownership • Raise awareness of the link between animal abuse and violence towards people • Champion animals worldwide through World Animal Day Together, we can turn compassion into action – and make real, lasting change for animals everywhere.
A gift in your Will could be the most important gift you ever make Making a Will is one of the most meaningful steps we can take in life. It ensures that your wishes are respected and that the people and causes you care about are supported. By leaving a gift in your Will to Naturewatch Foundation, you’ll be creating a lasting legacy of kindness – one that continues your love for animals long into the future. charity like ours, these special gifts allow us to take action that transforms lives – protecting animals from cruelty and promoting compassion worldwide for years to come. With your support, we can continue making the world a kinder place for animals – today, tomorrow, and always.
Find out how a gift in your Will can help support our campaigns. Contact us: email – legacies@naturewatch.org phone – 01242 252871 website – naturewatch.org Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 21
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre in Dorset is home to over 260 primates, including over 50 chimpanzees, and Europe’s official crèche for orphaned orangutan infants. Many of the park’s residents have been neglected, kept in unnatural conditions, or experienced unbelievable cruelty. At Monkey World, they can all enjoy the Orphaned orangutan Hujan adopted company of their own kind by Family at ©MonkeyWorld in a safe and natural environment. By including the Ape Rescue Trust in your estate plans, you become a guardian angel for those who cannot speak for themselves, helping us to provide a brighter, happier and stable future for primates in need. Full details of all the ways you can help can be found here: www.monkeyworld.org/support-us/
To find out more about how you can remember Monkey World in your Will, please contact us at MWoffice@monkeyworld.org
Lord Whi sky Sanctuary Fund
Please become a Friend of Lord Whisky and receive our quarterly newsletters (£20 per annum or £60 for life)
LORD WHISKY SANCTUARY FUND
The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund saves, and gives sanctuary to, a wide range of animals including horses, donkeys, dogs, cats, rabbits, mice, etc. Injured and orphaned wildlife are taken in, nursed back to health and released to the wild wherever possible. No healthy animal is ever destroyed. By giving a donation or leaving a legacy in your Will, you will help us continue saving the lives of horses, donkeys, dogs, cats, rabbits and other animals, and providing much need veterinary treatment at our low-income veterinary clinics. We rely entirely on donations and legacies and without your support, our work could not continue. Visit our website at www.lordwhisky.co.uk Park House Animal Sanctuary, Stelling Minnis, Kent CT4 6AN Tel: 01303 862622 Registered Charity 283483
22 I Legacy Yearbook 2026
The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund runs a mobile veterinary clinic, as well as our main clinic and surgery for people on low-income, and also has a low cost neutering programme. The Fund relies entirely on donations and legacies, without which our work could not continue. Contact us for further details: Mrs M. Todd MBE, Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund, Park House Animal Sanctuary, Stelling Minnis, Canterbury, Kent CT4 6AN www.lordwhisky.co.uk
CATASTROPHES CAT RESCUE Catastrophes Cat Rescue provides a lifeline for cats in desperate need. The cats we take in have often been abandoned or badly treated. Some are simply strays who have lived on the streets and never had the chance of a caring home. With your support we can reach out to them and provide urgent veterinary care, food and warmth. We actively support spaying and neutering as an essential part of responsible animal care. Our unique sanctuary in the Sussex countryside gives cats that are difficult to home such as feral, nervous and elderly cats, a peaceful environment with all home comforts and the freedom of the country gardens that surround the sanctuary. Please remember us in your will. With your legacy we can provide homeless and unwanted cats with love and care and a bright future. “Help us to be their someone” Visitors welcome by appointment – Contact Liz Varney:
Catastrophes Cat Rescue
Half Moon Cottage, Bakers Lane, Dallington, Heathfield, East Sussex TN21 9JS Tel: 01435 830212 Mobile: 07912 113392 lizzie@catastrophescats.org www.catastrophescats.org
Patron: Peter Egan
Registered Charity Number: 1017304
Visit us:
Catastrophes Cat Rescue Last summer saw Catastrophes Cat Rescue throw open its sanctuary gates in the Sussex countryside for a special garden party. Their patron, Peter Egan, (actor and animal activist) joined them to celebrate the opening of their new cat rehabilitation shelter. The building was donated by their generous supporters. Peter Egan cut the blue ribbon to officially open the new facility which will provide shelter and warmth for the cats that have been given refuge at their sanctuary. Peter was thrilled to support this big step forward in providing a lifeline for cats that have been abandoned or ill-treated, as well as ferals in desperate need, who have never had the chance of love and care and veterinary treatment. Their next step forward is to raise funds for accommodation for emergency cases, so that vet treatment and recovery time can be given to ensure the cats have the best chance of a healthy future. Catastrophes Cat Rescue are hoping to throw open their gates again this summer for another garden party. It’s only through the support of your kind donations that allows them to continue this vital work.
Please visit our website to donate: www.catastrophescats.org “Help us to be their Someone” – Thank you for caring Liz Varney – Founder 07912 113392
lizzie@catastrophescats.org Legacy Yearbook 2026 I 23
CAN YOU HELP US FIGHT PAIN?