Law firm Dougherty Quinn is again supporting The Children’s Centre’s ‘Make a Will’ initiative to raise funds for the charity. For the sixth year in succession, Dougherty Quinn’s legal experts are giving up their professional time to write 10 simple wills for free in exchange for participants making a set donation to The Children’s Centre. Since 2006, the scheme has raised over ?5,000 to fund services for both children and families across the Island. Dougherty Quinn Director Mark Dougherty commented: “Dougherty Quinn is delighted to be involved again in this worthwhile scheme for the sixth year running. Dougherty Quinn believe it is important to support local charities, and we are pleased once again to assist The Children’s Centre, with whom we have carried out a number of initiatives to raise funds throughout this year. Making a will is the only way to be sure your wealth and possessions are distributed in accordance with your wishes and that those who you care for most are provided for. It also gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your exact wishes will be carried out. Unfortunately, every year many people die without having made a will and this can sometimes lead to further distress to family and friends who have to deal with the consequences.” Difficulties are not confined to the wealthy, as even small estates can run into difficulties if no will has been made, as it must then be determined who is entitled to claim under Intestacy Rules. These problems can be avoided by making a will. Donations made in lieu of payment for the services of Dougherty Quinn’s legal experts go directly to The Children’s Centre. For those who take part in the Make a Will scheme there is also the option of including a donation to the charity in their will - but this is not compulsory. The Children’s Centre needs to raise in excess of ?500,000 each year to support its projects and gifts in wills are an important source of funding. Michelle O’Malley, Fundraising Manager at The Children’s Centre, said: “Leaving a gift to charity in your will is a personal choice, and we understand that anyone making a will wants to put their own family and loved ones first. But it is always particularly moving to hear that someone has left a donation in their will to support our work for children and families. All donations are gratefully received, but a pledge made in a will is a sign of the value and significance we have made to someone’s life which they have recognised in making decisions about the legacy they wish to leave behind.” To be eligible for the Make a Will scheme, the wills must be straightforward and not require any additional complex advice. Dougherty Quinn has pointed out that if any further advice is required, then additional charges may be incurred and will therefore not be considered part of the scheme. If this is the case, participants will be informed of this prior to any charges being incurred. All appointments for the Make a Will scheme must be made directly with The Children’s Centre and you must be able to attend both appointments on October 21, 2011, and November 4, 2011. For more information about the Make a Will scheme please contact Michelle O’Malley at The Children’s Centre on 631919 or visit www.thechildrencentre.org.im - ENDS -