Age UK and Octopus Legacy launch free will writing service

Age UK Shropshire Telford and Wrekin has launched a free will writing service in partnership with legal technology firm Octopus Legacy.

The charity said the service aims to help people set out their wishes more easily, following research showing that 51% of UK adults have not made a will. Among those aged over 55, nearly a third have yet to formally record how they want their estate to be handled.

The scheme allows participants to complete an online questionnaire with Octopus Legacy, which reviews the information within 10 working days. A will is then prepared for signing to make it legally binding. Updates can be made at no cost during the first year, with a £10 annual fee applying after that.

Anyone using the service is also able to leave a donation to Age UK Shropshire Telford and Wrekin in their will.

Octopus Legacy, founded in 2017, works to simplify processes around bereavement. The company said it developed its online will writing platform to reduce stress for families and ensure people’s wishes are recorded clearly.

The charity highlighted that making a will allows individuals to determine how money, property and personal belongings are distributed after death, and can reduce disputes among relatives. It can also enable people to make gifts to charities and plan for care of pets.

If someone dies without a will, their estate is divided according to intestacy rules, which may not reflect personal wishes.