Born Free Foundation - Keep Wildlife in the Wild

An up-to-date Will is so important. It’s the best way to ensure your wishes are carried out, that the people and causes which matter to you are remembered, after you’re gone.

Born Free produces a free Peace of Mind guide to making a Will. Preparing or updating a Will is usually straightforward and inexpensive. How wonderful to know the things you hold dear will be cared for! Many people don’t realise the problems it can cause their loved ones if they die without a Will. They presume everything will go to their spouse or children, but this isn’t always the case. You – and your partner if you have one - need to make plans for the money and possessions you will leave.

If you don’t have a Will, the law will decide what happens to your estate and how it is distributed. This can take years and cause considerable heartache. All these problems can be avoided if you make a Will. Born Free’s simple and practical Peace of Mind guide is available free. You just need to complete this coupon to apply for a copy.

Our booklet explains everything you need to know about creating a Will before you contact your solicitor. It goes through the process step by step and will help ensure no one is forgotten.

It even explains how you can minimise Inheritance Tax; if you leave a legacy to Born Free this money is not taxed and may bring the value of your estate below the tax limit. So by helping Born Free you could leave money to animals, not the tax man, and help your family!

I hope this valuable information will be of great help. What peace of mind to know your loved ones are provided for! Not forgetting your cat, dog or other animals, if you are a pet-owner.

Many years ago I first made my Will because I wanted to ensure my family would each receive something if anything happened to me. As a mother to four grown children, and with nine treasured grandchildren and now a precious great grandson, this is so important to me. Over the years, as my situation has changed, I have updated my Will several times.

I have also included a legacy to my beloved Born Free Foundation. Led by my son Will, our wildlife charity is determined to save animal lives, rescue individuals, stop cruelty and protect rare species. This work means so much to me, I want it to continue, even when I am gone.

Making a Will is a wonderful way to remember family and friends, but you can also give to the causes you care about.

The enclosed photos will show you how recent legacies, kindly given to Born Free, are now helping our charity care for and protect vulnerable wild animals in need. If, like me, you believe in compassionate conservation and animal welfare please include a legacy for Born Free in your Will. Some people have even decided to ask guests to make a donation to Born Free instead of flowers at the funeral of a loved one. What a special and loving way to honour their memory.

Together we can try to provide a safe future for all the animals, big and small, which are increasingly at risk.

With my very best wishes

Virginia McKenna
Born Free Founder & Trustee