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Why You Need a Will

In this video Dr Ros Taylor covers why making a will ensures your wishes are respected, reduces the risk of family disagreements, and provides clarity about your property and possessions.

 

 

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Key points

 

  • A will is a legal document that sets out who will receive your money, property, personal possessions, and who should care for your children if they are under 18.
  • If you do not create a will, you risk your wishes not being followed and increasing the chance of disagreements or conflict among family members after your death.
  • A valid will requires that you have clear mental capacity and that it is signed in front of two independent witnesses who are not beneficiaries.
  • If you wait to make a will until you are confused, unwell, or on strong medication, your will may be challenged or disputed, potentially leading to legal action.
  • A digital will explains who should manage, close, or memorialise your online accounts, such as photo libraries, social media profiles, and other digital platforms.
  • A letter of wishes allows you to share your hopes, values, personal messages, and guidance for your family, and although not legally binding, it can complement your will.
  • Making a will while you are healthy and thinking clearly ensures your wishes are understood, respected, and legally protected.
Printable information sheet

Meet our experts

Dr Ros Taylor MBE

Dr Ros Taylor has over 30 years of experience in palliative care and was awarded an MBE for Services to Hospice Care following a nomination by a patient. She was Clinical Director at Hospice UK, a national umbrella organisation for the hospice/ palliative movement, advocating for improved access to palliative care in all settings including care homes. In January 2020, she took on the medical leadership role to re-open Michael Sobell Hospice in West London. She has contributed to the Lancet Commission on the Value of Death on topics such as the ‘will to live’, power and gender issues. She is a Senior Advisor to the Montreal International Congress on Palliative Care, and has most recently developed a new resource, HPAL, which curates essential palliative information for both family and professional caregivers.

 

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The resources available are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances.  The resources are for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgment before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. Full terms and conditions.