Personal items ‘should be included in wills’

Posted 10/06/2009

Many Britons are more interested in getting sentimental keepsakes than cash in a person’s will, according to a new study.

Research by the Post Office found that less than one in five people want to be bequeathed money in a loved one’s inheritance.

By contrast, nearly one in three respondents said they would like to be given treasured possessions, such as video and audio recordings.

Gemini Adams, author and grief expert, said this gives those left behind a “continuing bond” with the deceased person.

She has therefore encouraged people to include items of personal significance in their wills, alongside their financial assets.

“By taking advance action, we can leave a legacy that can help to alleviate the grief and suffering of our family,” Ms Adams commented.

This comes shortly after wealth protection specialist Caroline Wallis told the Guardian that not having a will can have “disastrous” consequences for the deceased person’s relatives.