Many of our breakthroughs are only possible thanks to the generosity of supporters who include ME Research UK in their Wills. You don’t need to leave a large sum – every gift counts. Each pound moves us closer to vital discoveries that could change lives.
Could your legacy make a difference too?
We know that leaving a gift in your will is a big decision, and that family and loved ones must come first. But with a gift in your will, you can leave a legacy of hope to the next generation.
How to help
Including ME Research UK in your Will is a simple and meaningful way to support vital biomedical research. The easiest approach is to include us when your Will is first drawn up.
If you already have a Will, it can be updated by adding a Codicil – a short amendment that doesn’t require rewriting the entire document. We strongly recommend discussing any changes with your legal advisor to ensure your wishes are correctly recorded.
Every gift, large or small, helps fund crucial research and brings us closer to life-changing discoveries for people living with ME.
What information will I need?
Your advisor will need to know a few details about us and what you want to do:
- Our details – ME Research UK, of The Gateway, North Methven Street, Perth, PH1 5PP, (Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation – Charity Number SCO36942)
- Your wishes – basically there are two types of bequest. One, to leave us a specific cash donation or a donation of a specific asset (e.g. shares), and the other, to make us a residuary beneficiary.
We recommend that you seek appropriate professional advice to ensure that the type of donation you choose is exactly what you wish and is appropriate to your circumstances.
Potential tax advantages
Any gifts you make to a ME Research UK – during your lifetime or in your Will – are exempt from both Inheritance- and Capital Gains Tax. The gifts can be in any form, such as a sum of money, financial assets such as shares, or even property.
If you leave at least 10% of your estate to charity, you could reduce the Inheritance Tax payable on your estate from 40% to 36%.
The rules can be complex, but guidance is available from HMRC and from your solicitor.
This means that the full value of your gift goes directly to support the work of ME Research UK, and in many cases, giving to charity may even reduce the tax payable on your estate.
Your legal or tax advisor is in the best position to guide you through these matters and we advise that specific advice is taken.
More about Codicils
Codicil is normally a short document which formally amends a person’s current Will. To be of assistance we have produced draft Codicils, one for England and Wales, and the other for Scotland. Your legal advisor is in the best position to guide you through these matters and we advise that specific advice is taken.
Legacy pledge form
Please let us know of your decision to help by filling in our legacy pledge form. Your pledge is confidential and not legally binding. It helps us greatly to plan ahead, but does not commit you in any way.
If you would like to send a paper copy by post, you can do so using this link. Alternatively, you can complete the online form below.
