The National Free Wills Network - FAQs

What is The National Free Wills Network?

The National Free Wills Network offers free will-writing services to supporters of charities such as HEART UK, that subscribe to the Network. All member charities have access to a national network of qualified and registered solicitors. There are currently over 850 law firms registered with the Network.

Why do I need a will?

Everyone should have an up to date will.  It is a legally binding document and the only way to ensure that your wishes are carried out when you are gone.  It’s a way of looking after your family, friends and the charities that you care most about.  

How does the offer work?

The National Free Wills Network will send you a pack with a list of local solicitors for you to contact. In order to claim your free will you will need to make contact with one of the solicitors mentioned in the pack within 30 days of receiving your pack from The National Free Wills Network.

What kind of gift can I leave?

A share of your estate (also known as a residuary gift)

Many people leave a residuary gift to HEART UK.  This comprises of whatever is left over once gifts of money and items have been distributed from your estate.  You can leave the whole of your estate (100%), or a part of it, to HEART UK.

An amount of money (also known as a pecuniary gift)

It’s a good idea to ‘index link’ these gifts so they keep their value over the years.  This means your gift will be as useful as you intended it to be at the time of writing your will.

An item of value (also known as a specific gift)

You can gift specific personal possessions like property, jewellery, or shares.

In order to use The National Free Wills Network do I have to include a gift in my will to HEART UK?

Although you are under no obligation to leave a gift to HEART UK when using our FREE WILL OFFER, we are incredibly grateful that most people do.

Can I use my own solicitor to write my will for free under The National Free Wills scheme?

No, you have to use a participating solicitor. The National Free Wills Network includes over 850 law firms, registered with the relevant Law Society. 

What happens if there are no solicitors in my area?

The National Free Wills Network have solicitors in most areas in the UK even the Orkneys, but if there is no solicitor near you, or you would prefer to prepare your will in your own home, you can have a virtual meeting on-line or via the telephone.

Who pays for my will?

HEART UK will pay a discounted rate to the solicitor for a simple individual or mirror will. Most wills are simple, but if it isn't, you will be charged for any necessary additional work – the solicitor will confirm this directly with you.

What happens if my will is complex?

HEART UK will cover the cost of a simple will. If your will is more complex, e.g. inheritance tax advice, discretionary trusts or power of attorney, you will be responsible for paying any additional amount directly to the solicitor doing your will. When appointing your solicitor, it’s wise to check whether the cost of the will is fully covered by the Free Wills Service. Around 95% of Wills written under the scheme are defined as simple.

Who is eligible to use the free wills scheme?

The offer is open to anyone who supports HEART UK including their staff, suppliers and Trustees.   Please note, there are a limited number of free wills.  If we are unable to offer you a free will, we can place you on a waiting list and get back to you.

Can I request a Free Will pack if I live abroad and do not have a UK address?

No you can’t.  To take advantage of this scheme you must have a UK address.

If I use the National Free Wills Network, how long have I got to make my will?

In order to claim your free will you will need to make your appointment with one of the solicitors mentioned in the pack within 30 days of receiving your pack from the Free Wills Network.

I already have a will but it is out of date, can I use the scheme to update it?

If your will needs updating you can re-write it via The National Free Wills Network with a new will to ensure it is up to date and current. 

Does the solicitor share my will with HEART UK?

No, they don't receive a copy of your will nor will we be informed of its contents. They will only be told of a gift to HEART UK if you give your consent to share such details with The National Free Wills Network and HEART UK.

What information do I need to have in order to leave a gift to HEART UK?

To ensure efficient administration of your will, your solicitor will need the following information:

Registered Name: HEART UK – The Cholesterol Charity

Registered Office: 7 North Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1PE

Charity Registration number: 1003904 

How will my data be used?

Your details will be shared with The National Free Wills Network and HEART UK so your information pack can be sent to you in the post.  The solicitor you choose will send your completed confidential declaration form to The National Free Wills Network once you have completed your will.  The National Free Wills Network will share this form (with your consent) with HEART UK.  If you choose to leave a gift in your Will to HEART UK, you are under no obligation to disclose the value but if you chose to do so HEART UK will keep this information confidential.