The Charity for Civil Servants supports current, former and retired civil servants through tough times in their lives. From mental health struggles and financial assistance to relationship issues, getting through grief and coping with disability, we’re here to help people stay strong, whatever life brings.

For generations, civil servants have dedicated their working lives to serving others. The Charity for Civil Servants exists to make sure that same care is there for them and their families throughout life.

We couldn’t do this without the generosity of our supporters and an amazing way you can help is through a gift in your will. When the time is right for you to write or update your will, you could consider leaving us a gift. It’s a way to give to the civil service community without it costing you anything in your lifetime.

You can be like Gill (pictured), who left us a gift. Gill joined the civil service in 1975, where she met her husband Dave and made life-long friends with Elaine and Steve. She became godmother to their daughter, Hannah, also a civil servant.

After a lifetime of public service and making a difference to others, Gill retired but sadly, a year later, she died.

Gill’s god daughter, Hannah, said: “Before she died, she said she wanted to leave a gift to the Charity for Civil Servants… She liked the idea of helping her colleagues through tough times, the people she had grown to call friends…

“Being a civil servant myself, I understand how important it is to look after each other. Like Gill and my parents, I chose to be a civil servant because I wanted to make a difference. Gill has chosen to continue to do this even in death and I’m proud to help her.”

When it comes to including the charities you care about in your will, there can be a lot to consider. Here are some common questions to think about when considering leaving a gift in your will to the Charity for Civil Servants.

Will my gift really make a difference?

Your gift creates a lasting legacy, positively affecting people for years to come. It’s a helping hand to your civil service community that extends well after your lifetime. No matter the size, every penny counts towards the financial, emotional and practical support we give.

I already have a will, can I change it?

Wills can and should be updated and amended as your life and circumstances change. Checking your will is up to date will ensure it reflects your current wishes and intentions. Gifts to charity can be added, amended or removed in an update.

Will my loved ones be missing out if I leave a gift to charity in my will?

Family and friends always come first, so after taking care of your loved ones, any gift in your will can help provide an umbrella of support.

What type of gift can I leave?

You can leave three types of gifts:
• A percentage of your estate
• A set amount of money A specific object, asset or property Most people choose to leave a percentage of whatever is left of their estate, ensuring your loved ones are looked after, and your gift will keep pace with inflation.

Can I reduce inheritance tax by leaving a gift to charity?

Making a charitable donation may help reduce the amount of inheritance tax payable where the value of an estate exceeds the nil rate band.

A gift to charity is free from inheritance tax and if you leave 10% or more of your net estate to charity, then the total amount you pay reduces from 40% to 36%. If you think this may apply to you, visit gov.uk for more information.

Should I inform you if I’ve left you a gift in my will?

Not if you don’t want to. It’s up to you whether you choose to tell a charity you’ve left a gift in your will. But if you have left us a gift, and feel comfortable telling us, we’d love to thank you and keep in touch about the work we do. Any information you share with us will be treated with confidentiality.

If this has interested you, please visit our website to find out more and get in touch via hello@cfcs.org.uk or call 0800 056 2424.

Please note, the Charity for Civil Servants is unable to offer legal or financial advice and would always recommend seeking independent legal advice when making your will.

Jess Harrison is legacy marketing manager for the Charity for Civil Servants