GET your will written for free in May as law firms in Ilkley join forces with Martin House Children’s Hospice for its annual Make a Will Month.

The hospice has partnered with solicitors’ firms from across the region to offer a free will writing service throughout May. Under the scheme, solicitors will draw up a simple will or pair of mirror wills free of charge.

Solicitors firms LCF Law in Ilkley, and Ison Harrison in Otley are both taking part in the scheme.

Emily Sharman, individual giving fundraiser at Martin House, said: “Making a will is an important way to make sure you take care of your loved ones, and it is something everyone should consider doing.

“While there is no obligation to leave any money to Martin House by using this service, your gift can help us to continue our care.

“Around one in four children who use Martin House are cared for thanks to money left in wills, so by choosing to leave a gift to the hospice, you are helping us to safeguard our future and continue to support families for many years to come.”

Martin House cares for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions from across West, North and East Yorkshire, as well as supporting their families. Its care includes planned stays at the hospice, emergency and symptom control care, support in people’s own homes, and in hospitals.

It costs up to £9 million a year to run Martin House, with nearly 90 per cent of the total coming from fundraising and voluntary income – including money left in wills.

To take part in the scheme, simply make an appointment during May with one of the participating solicitors, and complete an entitlement voucher to receive your free will.

Emily added: “We’d like to thank all the solicitors who are taking part in Make a Will month, and giving up their time to offer this important service to people.”

To find out which solicitors are taking part in your area, and for more details on how to take part, visit www.martinhouse.org.uk/makeawill.