A new survey by national charity Will Aid has found that 71% of adults in Wales either do not have a Will or have one that is out of date.
The poll, which questioned more than 2,000 people across the UK, revealed that:
- 64% of adults in Wales have never made a Will
- 7% admitted their Will no longer reflects their wishes
- Across the UK, 56% do not have a Will, while 10% have one that is out of date
These findings highlight a growing concern that many people are leaving their estates and loved ones unprotected.
Why People Delay Making a Will
The research found several reasons why people put off writing or updating their Wills, including:
- Cost of using a solicitor (20%)
- Not finding the time (20%)
- Discomfort discussing death (17%)
- Concerns that the process is too complicated (26%)
Nationally, people wait an average of six years before updating their Will. Worryingly, nearly one in five (19%) have never updated theirs at all.
Why an Up-to-Date Will Matters
Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid Campaign Director, explained:
“Making a Will is a loving act for those you care about. It provides a clear plan and guidance for your family after you’re gone.
The statistics on outdated Wills are worrying, because circumstances change, and it’s crucial to keep your documents up to date to ensure they reflect your current situation.”
Life events such as the death of a relative, divorce, separation, marriage, or the arrival of children and stepchildren often mean a Will no longer reflects someone’s wishes. Without an up-to-date Will, families may face confusion and distress at an already difficult time.
Will Aid – A Chance to Make or Update Your Will
Will Aid takes place every November and offers a practical opportunity for people to have their Wills drawn up or updated by a solicitor. Instead of paying standard legal fees, clients are invited to make a voluntary donation to support charity. Suggested donations are £120 for a single basic Will or £200 for a pair of mirror Wills.
The scheme supports eight charities, including Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Shelter, and Crisis.
Appointments for this year’s Will Aid campaign are now open and can be booked online at Will Aid appointment lookup
Our Advice at Swayne Johnson Solicitors
At Swayne Johnson Solicitors, we regularly advise clients across North Wales and Cheshire on Wills, Probate, and Estate Planning. We echo Will Aid’s message that having a properly drafted and up-to-date Will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected.
If you would like to discuss making or updating your Will, please contact our expert team today.