An organisation has written to the UK’s political leaders arguing that people should be offered a financial incentive to leave legacies to good causes.
Alex McDowell, chair of Remember a Charity, penned the letter suggesting that parties may want to consider new rules.
Mr McDowell believes that there should be some form of incentive to individuals whose estates are not eligible to pay Inheritance Tax (IHT).
He believes that an inducement would drive up the number of people who decide to leave a gift to a cause close to their heart.
He notes that while more than a third of individuals are happy to leave small sums of money when they make their Will, a little over six per cent actually make charitable gifts.
In his letter, Mr McDowell said: “No matter who is elected or which individuals make up our new Parliament, government’s support in developing fiscal incentives and helping making legacy giving a social norm really is critical.
“Legacies are the largest single source of voluntary income and their growth is essential if we are to enable a stronger and more resilient charitable sector.
“After today, we’ll continue to work with [politicians] to enlist their support in creating the best possible environment to nurture and grow legacy giving.”