As residents in London begin being offered their COVID booster jabs, they are being urged to boost their loved one’s protection by making a will at the same time.

Throughout November, firms across the country are volunteering their time to write basic wills as part of Will Aid and appointments are now available. 

The annual campaign, which raised over 655,000 for charity in 2020, provides people with an opportunity to get a solicitor written will in exchange for a voluntary donation to Will Aid.

Like previous years there is expected to be a high demand, so people are encouraged to book an appointment now with a participating solicitor in their area, which they can find via the Will Aid website.

Firms taking part in London include Waterstone Chambers LLP, which raised 780 for the campaign last year.

Since being launched in 1988, the campaign has so far raised more than 21 million for its nine partner charities: ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, SCIAF, Sightsavers, and Trocaire.

Game of Thrones star Iain Glen has supported Will Aid for many years, he said: “Making a will is really about owning up to the inevitable.

“We organise ourselves in life and so we should in death by clarifying your final wishes.”

Thinking about death can be daunting for people but, for the Game of Thrones star, it took a weight off his shoulders.

“I found making a will a happy, comforting, and cathartic experience. Knowing that you will be providing for and making things that much easier for your loved ones” he added.

“Making a will with Will Aid brings you peace of mind while supporting nine of the UK’s most treasured charities.”

Instead of their usual charges, Will Aid’s participating solicitors waive their fees for writing basic wills and ask clients to make a suggested voluntary donation of 100 for a single will, and 180 for a pair of mirror wills.

Peter de Vena Franks, Campaign Director for Will Aid, said: “The money raised each year is incredibly important for each of our partner charities. It was inspiring to see our committed solicitors, despite all the challenges, continue to volunteer their time to raise vital funds last year.

“I encourage anyone who does not yet have a will to use this opportunity to protect loved ones and causes close to them, while supporting nine of the UK’s best-loved charities.”

Jon Jacques, Chair of Will Aid, added: “We are very grateful to all the solicitors, new and returning, who selflessly volunteer their time to write thousands of wills without their normal fee each year.

“Not only does their philanthropy help thousands of local people protect their loved ones and causes close to them with a professionally-written will, but it also helps the nine Will Aid charities continue their life-changing work.”