A newly-launched foundation says it aims to tackle the gap in funding for private client services through grants for disabled individuals, people with complex needs, and the families who care for them.
Loving Legacies Foundation is a community interest company launched with a mission to “close one of the most overlooked gaps in the UK’s support landscape” – that of estate planning and private client service.
It has been launched by Steina McKenna, an industry professional at Peterborough-based W&P Legal, to provide grant funding for families who face significant barriers when trying to secure essential legal protections.
McKenna told Today’s Wills and Probate the foundation “is hugely personal” to her and the launch is a culmination of two-year journey.
She added:
“Across the UK, thousands of families face significant barriers when trying to secure essential legal protections such as wills, trusts, lasting powers of attorney, Court of Protection applications, and care funding guidance. Loving Legacies Foundation CIC has been created to change that.
“These services are critical for safeguarding vulnerable people — yet they remain out of reach for many who need them most.”
Critically, the foundation does not plan to provide these services itself, but will work with partners across the country to facilitate delivery. The foundation is now looking for the support of the private client and wider supplier community.
Part of committing to supporting the Loving Legacies Foundation is an agreement to operate on a national fee structure, “to ensure fairness, transparency and consistency across all partner firms.”
Having formally launched, the foundation has set about fundraising to deliver on its objectives of providing up to 70% funding for families. The remaining 30% is expected to be covered by the applicant, although in some cases exceptions could be made where hardship applies.
Alongside its own fundraising initiatives, the foundation is seeking industry sponsorship through a membership scheme priced at £149 per annum.
McKenna concluded:
“Legal Aid does not cover these areas, and traditional charities are not structured or resourced to commission and fund regulated private client legal work. As a result, families are often left navigating complex, high stakes decisions alone.”
McKenna is joined by Sara Sheppard of SLS Wills and More, and Simon Durant of Durant & Co as directors of the community interest company. For information about supporting the Loving Legacies Foundation please contact Steina McKenna at
Email : thelovinglegaciesfoundation@gmail.com
Contact number : 07842 448212
