Good Wills, Great Impact: How WeWill Is Unlocking Scottish Legacy Income for Charities
Discover how one simple idea is helping more charities benefit from gifts in Wills.
- by allan@wewill.co.uk
- May 5, 2025

We are excited to share that Third Force News recently featured our work in their article, Good Wills Hunting. This coverage highlights our partnership with the Development Trusts Association Scotland (DTAS) and the launch of a legacy giving pilot that brings will-writing support to local charities and communities.
At WeWill, our aim is simple. We want every charity in Scotland, regardless of size, to have access to legacy income. For too long, this funding has been concentrated among large national organisations. We are here to change that by helping more charities start conversations about gifts in wills and by offering supporters a trusted way to take action.
The Hidden Challenge Facing Scottish Charities
Many Scottish charities are missing out on a powerful income stream. Despite having committed supporters, they are not seeing the level of legacy giving that exists elsewhere in the UK.
Research shows that 42 percent of people in Scotland over the age of 40 would consider leaving a gift in their will (The Scottish Legacy Market Report). However, only about half of those people go on to do it. Often, they are not asked or are unsure how to begin.
This is not just a missed opportunity. It is funding that could transform local services and help charities plan for the future.
Scotland Is Ready to Catch Up
Legacy giving is well established in England and Wales, where systems are in place to track and support charitable gifts in wills. In Scotland, charities are still working without the same level of infrastructure or public awareness.
But the tide is turning. With the baby boomer generation now thinking about their legacy, we are entering a unique moment of potential. These supporters want to make a difference, and gifts in wills allow them to do just that without affecting their current finances.
Legacy income is already worth around 20 percent of all charitable donations in Scotland (The Scottish Legacy Market Report). With the right tools and leadership, that number is set to grow. This is the time for charity boards, chief executives, and fundraisers to act.
How WeWill Helps Charities Tap Into This Opportunity
WeWill is a free Scottish will-writing platform that makes legacy giving easier for both charities and supporters. It provides legally compliant wills written specifically for the Scottish legal system, with options for both simple and more complex needs.
Charities can invite their supporters to use the service, which includes the option to leave a gift to one or more organisations. There is no cost for the supporter, and the process is clear and supportive from start to finish.
This approach helps more people follow through on their intention to leave a legacy gift. It removes barriers and builds confidence.
Featured in Third Force News
Good Wills Hunting told the story of our growing movement and the impact it is already having. The article explained how WeWill is working with partner charities and legal experts to make legacy giving part of everyday fundraising.
A big thank you goes to the team at DTAS, whose members were central to the pilot programme. Their commitment to community-led development made them ideal partners for this initiative. We also want to recognise Cranhill Development Trust, for their hard work in the programme, and the other members taking part. Their dedication to sharing the message of legacy giving with their supporters has helped lead the way.
Why Charity Will-Writing Is So Effective
Many people want to leave something behind that reflects their values. Legacy gifts allow them to do this while still putting family and loved ones first. It is a generous act that costs nothing today but makes a real impact tomorrow.
Offering a dedicated Scottish will-writing service is one of the best ways for charities to encourage these gifts. It removes uncertainty, provides a clear path to action, and helps supporters take the final step. When done well, it turns good intentions into lasting change.
Make Legacy Giving Part of Your Strategy
Building a strong legacy fundraising programme does not need to be complicated. By adding a giving in wills option to your communications, you make legacy giving feel normal and achievable.
You can include it in your newsletters, donation pages, events, social media, and direct mail. Over time, this steady presence builds awareness and trust. It keeps the idea of legacy giving in supporters' minds, ready for when the moment is right.
What Leaders Need to Know
Legacy income is no longer something to consider later. It is one of the most strategic sources of funding your charity can invest in today.
With people living longer and thinking more about their legacy, the opportunity is real and growing. By acting now, charity leaders can ensure their organisations are prepared for the future.
Partnering with WeWill gives you everything you need to get started. You will have access to a trusted platform, expert support, and a proven way to open up new conversations with your community.
Let’s Start the Conversation
We would love to hear from you. Whether you are ready to begin or simply want to learn more, get in touch. Book a call, send us a message, or invite us to speak with your team. We are here to help.
Together, we are building a future where every supporter has the chance to leave a meaningful legacy. If you believe in that vision, please share this post and help us spread the word.
Rules of Intestacy Scotland: Why every Scot needs a Will
What are the Rules of Intestacy in Scotland in 2024?
- by allan@wewill.co.uk
- Nov. 14, 2024

What happens if you die without a Will in Scotland? The Rules of Intestacy decide how your assets are divided, often in ways you wouldn’t expect. Learn how to protect your loved ones and secure your legacy with WeWill’s easy-to-use online Will service.
Can you trust an online Will? Understanding the legalities in Scotland
What to consider before creating an online Will in Scotland
- by allan@wewill.co.uk
- Nov. 2, 2024

Wondering if an online Will is legally valid in Scotland? Our guide breaks down the essentials for creating a legally binding online Will under Scots law. From understanding the requirements for a valid Will to knowing when to consult a solicitor, this article provides clear guidance on ensuring your digital Will meets all legal standards. With WeWill’s secure online platform and expert support, creating a Will has never been easier. Discover if an online Will suits your needs and how to make your wishes legally protected.
Can I write my own Will without a solicitor?
- by allan@wewill.co.uk
- July 15, 2023

You can make a Will yourself, and there is no need for your Will to be made by a solicitor, however for it to be legally binding in Scotland it must comply with various requirements. If not, and these rules are not followed, your Will will not be valid. Some of the rules detailed are specific to Scotland and differ from those in England and Wales or Northern Ireland.
Making a Will Scotland
- by allan@wewill.co.uk
- July 6, 2023

Making a Will is essential to ensure your assets and belongings are shared according to your wishes after you die. Specific rules must be followed when writing your Will in Scotland to make sure your document is legally valid. Some of these rules can differ from those in England and Wales or Northern Ireland.
Making a lasting impact through charitable giving
- by allan@wewill.co.uk
- June 8, 2023

Everyone needs a helping hand at times and charitable giving is a powerful way to make a difference in the world and support causes that are important to you. However, many people struggle with how to make a lasting impact through their donations. Here are some tips and strategies for making a lasting impact through charitable giving.
Why does it pay to leave a legacy gift to your favourite charity?
- by allan@wewill.co.uk
- May 28, 2023

When it comes to charitable giving, many people focus on making donations during their lifetime. However, leaving a legacy gift to a charity is a powerful way to make a lasting impact that extends far beyond your lifetime. By including a charitable bequest in your will, you can ensure that your favourite charity continues to receive support long after you are gone and that you make a difference that lasts beyond your lifetime.