Charity launches month-long campaign in October 2026 to highlight the importance of having a valid, up-to-date Will
Citizens Advice County Durham is launching a public awareness campaign throughout October 2026, encouraging residents across the county to make sure they have a valid and up-to-date Will in place.
The campaign, timed to coincide with the national Free Wills Month initiative, aims to dispel common myths that stop people from putting a Will in place — including the beliefs that they “have nothing to leave”, “don’t know where to start”, or that “it’s too expensive”.
In fact, without a valid Will, the law decides how a person’s estate is shared out under the rules of intestacy — which can mean unmarried partners are not automatically entitled to inherit, and loved ones are left to navigate complex and often distressing administrative processes at an already difficult time.
Edward Pickering, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice County Durham, said:
“Every adult should have a Will, regardless of their age, income or wealth — it’s the only way of making sure your wishes are met after you’re gone. Too many people put this off, thinking it’s complicated or expensive, or that they simply don’t have enough to leave. The reality is that a straightforward Will can often be written yourself, and for more complex situations, a solicitor can advise you of the cost upfront. Taking control now means real peace of mind for you and your family later.”
As part of the campaign, Citizens Advice County Durham is reminding residents that:
- A Will lets you decide who cares for your children if something happens to you.
- Unmarried partners may not automatically inherit without a valid Will.
- Wills should be updated as life changes — such as marriage, separation, or the arrival of new family members.
- With the right advice, a Will can also help with inheritance tax planning.
- Straightforward Wills can be written without a solicitor, while a solicitor is recommended for more complex estates.
The charity is also using the campaign to highlight the option of leaving a gift — or legacy — to local causes, including Citizens Advice County Durham itself, noting that gifts to charities in Wills are not normally subject to inheritance tax and can make a lasting difference to local advice services relied upon by thousands of residents each year.
Free guidance on making a Will is available at https://citizensadvicecd.org.uk/wills
