Your Will could unlock the breakthrough that means epilepsy no longer
defines lives.
Write or update your Will for free and help to transform the lives of people with epilepsy.
Every piece of research begins with a donation
We are moving closer to the breakthroughs that could transform lives, and your legacy can help make that future possible. Each legacy gift brings us closer to a better tomorrow for everyone affected by epilepsy.
We are the only charity in the UK working in close partnership with the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London. Bringing leading experts together to form a powerful multidisciplinary team driving cutting-edge research. Our doctors and scientists have already made significant global contributions to understanding, diagnosing, and treating epilepsy with pioneering new diagnostic tools, advancing both surgical and medical therapies. Over a third of our voluntary income comes from legacies, helping us continue vital research and improve outcomes for those living with epilepsy.
With over 630,000 people in the UK affected by epilepsy, our work is more vital than ever.
Andrew’s Story
Andrew experienced much prejudice due to his epilepsy. Side effects from his medication often impacted on his social life and opportunities throughout his teenage years and early '20s.
After a change of medication during his course of treatment at the Epilepsy Society, Andrew's health and seizure control improved dramatically and he was able to go back to work full time. His family also received invaluable support and information from the Epilepsy Society.
His brother Paul said Andrew's gift of a legacy was his thank you for the medical treatment and support he had received from the Epilepsy Society.
Writing a Will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself, your loved ones and the future
Throughout your life there will be many milestones, like, finding a life partner or buying home. You will always want to make sure that friends and family are looked after, and making a Will is a way of ensuring that your wishes are carried forward. Once you have made your wishes known you may also wish to consider leaving a gift to a charity. Thank you if you have considered us.
Our trusted partner Octopus Legacy can support you in turning your wishes into a legal document, which will be checked by a solicitor. You can write a simple Will or update your existing Will free of charge, with Epilepsy Society covering the fee of £150. You may be able to get a Will with a trust at a discounted rate.
Write your Will your way: online, over a telephone/video call, or even in person.
The team is always pleased to have a quick confidential talk, and the friendly staff will guide you through the procedure, helping you to provide for your loved ones and ensuring that your wishes are fulfilled. Simply:
- visit Octopus Legacy online and use EPILEPSYSOCIETYFREE at checkout;
- phone Octopus Legacy on 020 4525 3605 for information or to arrange an appointment; alternatively,
- choose your own solicitor. The Law Society can help you find a local solicitor if you'd prefer, however please note that any fees would be your responsibility.
For more information check our FAQ below or download our free guide.
Planning for the Future
If someone you love lives with epilepsy, estate planning can help secure their future. Our free guide offers practical advice to help you take the first step with confidence.
Thank you for your interest in leaving a gift to support our research. If you would like to speak to us about your wishes please call us on freephone number 0300 102 0026 or email legacies@epilepsysociety.org.uk.
FAQ
I don’t think I have anything to leave, so how do I work out my assets?
It’s easy to underestimate the value of what you own — but understanding your assets is a key part of planning for the future. Our Will Planner is a simple, helpful tool that can guide you through what you have and make writing your Will much easier. Why not take a few minutes today to get started?
What information do I need to provide if I leave a gift to Epilepsy Society in a Will?
Once your family and friends have been included, your Will is also a way for you to continue to support a cause close to your heart. To leave us a gift in your Will here is the information you need for your solicitor or person drafting your Will:
Epilepsy Society
Chalfont Centre
Chesham Lane
Chalfont St Peter
Buckinghamshire
SL9 0RJ
Registered Charity number 206186
Your adviser can agree the words and type of gift which suits your circumstances.
Who should I choose as an executor for my Will?
Choosing an executor is an important step, they’ll be the one making sure your wishes are honoured, and your estate is looked after. It should be someone you trust and feel comfortable relying on. You can pick anyone over 18, including someone named in your Will. We usually recommend naming at least two people, so they can support each other through the process. You can find out more about the executors here.
What type of gift can I leave the Epilepsy Society?
We’re so grateful you’re considering leaving a gift in your Will. The 3 main types of gift Percentage share also known as:
Residual - you choose a percentage share of your estate to gift to charity. This type of gift is the most valuable because it's inflation proof.
Lump sum also known as pecuniary - a fixed amount that can lose its value over time as costs increase.
Specific gift - a particular item, such as a car, shares or jewellery which can be sold to obtain a gift that we can use for our research. For alternatives to this we recommend you speak to your solicitor.
If you have a family member with epilepsy, careful planning of your estate can protect their future when you are no longer around. It might seem like a complicated process however we have a free estate planning guide that you can download with suggestions of a few things to discuss with a solicitor or other legal adviser to ensure your loved ones are looked after. For instance, it can be important to consider a ‘discretionary’ trust for your family member or to draft lasting powers of attorney.
What happens to inheritance tax if I leave a gift to the Epilepsy Society?
Giving a gift to the Epilepsy Society could reduce your inheritance tax liability. Gifts to charities are 100% tax free and taken out of your estate before any inheritance tax is calculated. Under current law, if you leave 10% of your net estate to charity, it may reduce the overall rate of inheritance tax you pay. Find out more about Capital Gains Tax and inheritance tax.
I’ve already written my Will. Can I amend it to leave Epilepsy Society a gift?
Yes, you can ask your solicitor or professional Will writer to make amendments to your Will at any time. Depending on the extent of the changes you would like to make to your existing Will, it might be possible for you to use a codicil to make your amendments. Please remember to include our full name and charity number.
Our full address is Epilepsy Society, Chalfont Centre, Chesham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, SL9 0RJ. Registered Charity number 206186.
Giving in memory
Losing someone special is never easy, but honouring their memory with a gift to our life transforming research could bring comfort and that has a lasting testimonial.
Will planner
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Will guide and FAQ
Download our Wills guide and FAQ