CASE STUDY
Alisa, 30, Marketing Professional
My Grandad’s ‘For When I’m Gone’ file changed my life. After her grandfather passed away on Christmas Eve, we discovered a folder he had created titled “For When I’m Gone.” The folder included everything from practical matters like his will and life insurance policy, to sentimental items like messages to his children and instructions on how to fix a leaky tap. It was the ultimate handover document, prepping us to take on a world without him.
It has brought me so much comfort, knowing that every time a leaky tap breaks it’s like he’s there with me, taking you through the process of mending it step by step. And being able to access his voice and the stories from his childhood is probably the most valuable item any of us own.
Even though we still felt grief and shock – nothing could have taken that away, the moments after his death where his absence would have been most felt were softened by the notes and instructions he’d left us, leaving us feeling that he was still with us somehow even though he was gone.
The experience was so powerful that it inspired me to start similar conversations with my own family. We’ve had countless discussions about our own funeral wishes. We have all started our own FWIG folder and have been recording a DIY version of Desert Island discs with our grandparents.
Being more open to these conversations hasn’t just made any future losses easier, but it’s also brought us closer as a family.
ABOUT Free Wills Campaign
During October, Octopus Legacy is partnering with charities from across the UK for their bi-annual Free Wills Campaign to encourage more people to write their wills and support charities that matter to them, with the aim to surpass its previous milestone of £12.3 million in estimated legacy income in the campaign last year.
In addition to the new Free Wills campaign, Octopus Legacy has published a new guide on their website, outlining the importance of creating a will, considering the legacy you want to leave behind and how to get involved in the Free Wills Campaign and charity gifting.
Sam Grice, CEO and Founder of Octopus Legacy:
“Our Free Wills Month campaign has been a resounding success, demonstrating the power of estate planning to support charitable causes. Witnessing so many individuals take the proactive step of creating a will and leaving a legacy is truly inspiring. This campaign has highlighted the personal and meaningful nature of estate planning, encouraging people to consider not only their families but also the causes they love the most. The last campaign we ran helped raise £12.3 million in estimated legacy income for our charity partners in 2023.
For too long estate planning has been inaccessible for the majority of people. By offering free will-writing services, we’ve been able to reach individuals who may have otherwise overlooked this crucial aspect of their financial planning. The legacy gifts generated through this campaign provide a significant boost to charities that rely on long-term donations to fund vital research and awareness initiatives.”
