The reported surge in enquiries for will writing has seen a significant decline in the past couple of weeks as the UK is beginning to move toward the next phase of the Coronavirus crisis.
Many businesses reported a surge in enquiries early in the outbreak
Figures provided to Today’s Wills & Probate show that searches for online will enquiries have fallen by 40% over the past 3 weeks following the initial spike in April.
The figures have been released by online pay per click management experts Internet Marketing Team who have tracked the market for the duration of the outbreak.
The sector has been hard hit by the impact of Covid-19, with many organisations affected by the inability to meet clients as a result of social distancing and lockdown.
Many firms have moved to telephone and video conference appointments but with no relaxation of the Will Act news reports of “drive-thru” will signing and signing wills on car bonnets surfaced.
The relaxation of lockdown will begin to enable a return to some semblance of normality, with many organisations adapting the guidance provided to the likes of the property sector and ensuring that appropriate social distancing and PPE is observed in order to facilitate home visits.
Today’s Wills & Probate have interviewed one independent will writer who has shared her experience of the crisis through her blog; outlining the importance of taking a practical and pragmatic approach to supporting clients with their will writing needs.
Read about her experience here.
And while an increase in will writing is welcome, a recent survey conducted by STEP has shown that only 5% of inheritance advisors had seen a big increase in the number of LPAs being set up.
The England and Wales Office of the Public Guardian has issued guidance on how advisors can help draw up LPAs, whilst still observing rules on social distancing, self-isolation and shielding, thus ensuring that everyone is safe and comfortable during the process.
The guidance states:
- The signing and witnessing of the LPA can be done via the post, or if you live within walking distance, you could take the LPA to the people who need to sign – whilst keeping at least two metres and washing your hands before and after handling the LPA
- Witnessing the donor and attorney’s signatures can be done by a neighbour on the doorstep, over the garden fence or through a closed window.
