Thursday 27 September 2012

‘Will week’ at Midsomer Norton shop

Shoppers in Midsomer Norton are being offered an extra bargain at their local Barnardo’s shop next week.
They can have a new Will written free of charge as part of a new fundraising scheme organised by the children’s charity.
Barnardo’s Will Week is an exclusive partnership with local firm QualitySolicitors FDC Law who will be offering free and impartial advice.
A representative will be at shop in The Hollies, High Street, from Monday to Friday, October 1-5, from 1-2pm.
Barnardo’s hopes the free service will encourage supporters to remember the charity in their Will, but there is no obligation to do so.

Barnardo’s shop manager Angie Cruickshank said: “Almost half of the charity’s income from the general public is donated through Wills, and the money raised is vital to continue our work with vulnerable children.
“The scheme aims to make more people aware of the benefits of writing and – after provision is made for loved ones – to consider remembering Barnardo’s as well.”

Angie added: “We always welcome donations of good-quality clothes, books, toys and games, as well as offers of help from potential volunteers, so we hope this new scheme will encourage even more people to visit us.“Working together, we can help disadvantaged children to turn their life around.”

For further information on Barnardo’s Will Week, visit www.barnardos.org.uk/freewill or call 0208 498 7880. The free will-writing service is available to people aged 55 or older.

To volunteer at the Midsomer Norton shop, call (01761) 411541.

Friday 14 September 2012

Lasting Powers of Attorney

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are used everyday to help people with their finances. You can choose someone you trust, who can then be given the power to sort things out for you like collecting your pension, arranging to pay the bills and arranging for your care.

LPAs are particularly useful should you suffer a sudden or progressive illness which limits your mental capacity to make decisions, such as dementia or a stroke.

If you think that this article does not apply to you, think again. Here are some facts that may change your mind:-
  1. Over 800,000 people in the UK currently have dementia
  2. By 2021 over a million people will become sufferers of this illness.
  3. Approximately 11,000 people each year suffer severe brain injury
  4. There are currently 10 million people in the UK living with a neurological condition which has a significant impact on their lives
  5. Each year 600,000 people are diagnosed with a neurological condition 
It is also a sad fact that Elder Abuse is becoming increasingly common. This sort of abuse can be physical, psychological or financial. An LPA is one of the best ways to protect against financial abuse.  You can appoint separate Attorneys to manage your financial affairs, from your welfare and healthcare decisions.

Why not contact us for further information and advice?