Preparations are underway for our upcoming Wills Week, in which a host of local solicitors waive their will-writing fees in return for a donation to St Catherine’s. What’s more, anyone taking part in Wills Week gets the service at a discounted rate.

Here at the hospice, we’re passionate about raising awareness of the importance of planning for the end of life, and aim to equip people with knowledge and understanding of how to put appropriate measures in place. This applies to everyone, not just those who already have a connection with the hospice or who are living with a life-shortening condition.

For example, we work with Birchall Blackburn Law to host monthly legal clinics at The Mill café and community hub in our grounds, through which members of the public access free, expert advice on matters such as wills, lasting powers of attorney, inheritance tax, and more.

Writing a will might be something you’ve put off in the past, but it is incredibly important in ensuring that your wishes are formally recorded and that your loved ones are taken care of. It not only covers plans for your finances, but also your property and household contents, details about legal guardians for your children, and funeral arrangements.

Last year, Wills Week raised enough funds to cover the cost of one of inpatient nurses for the year, which is really fantastic and just goes to show what a meaningful initiative this is. It not only raises vital funds for the hospice, but encourages our supporters to tick off an important job from their ‘to do’ list.

There is no obligation to leave a donation in your will to St Catherine’s as a result of your involvement with Wills Week, but some people do chose to support us in this way, which we are extremely grateful for.

Donations in wills fund the care of one in six of our patients, making a significant contribution towards our ongoing fundraising efforts as we strive to raise an incredible £3.5million every year.

Appointments for Wills Week tend to fill up fast, so although it’s still a couple of months away (November 13-17), if you’re interested in finding out more, please click here or call 01772 629171 to request an information pack.

• Kay Taylor works in the communications team at St Catherine’s Hospice