Bequests

Almost everyone has one or more significant others – partners, family or friends who they care deeply about. For many people this care is extended and expressed as concern for the well-being of others within their community and their quality of life.  

By including Busselton Hospice Care Inc. (BHCI) in your Will now, you can make a lasting contribution to ensure that those who are at the end of their lives will experience quality of life during this time. The financial resources provided by bequests make it possible for BHCI to initiate and extend its services  with a planned, long term focus.  (While many people believe that palliative care services are provided by, or are part of a larger organisation such as the Cancer Council or a major hospital, this is not the case. BHCI is a totally separate and independently funded organisation).  

A clearly written and up to date Will gives you the knowledge that you leave a gift to the future for those with a life threatening illness that they will be cared for within their own home surrounded by loved ones and specially trained carers.  Having provided for your family and friends in your Will, you can also inspire them by making a gift to something that is important to you. A bequest does not necessarily have to be a large gift to BHCI – any gift can make a significant difference to our work.

How to make a bequest

To make a bequest you need to make or supplement your Will. Because Wills have to comply with certain legal requirements, we advise you to consult a solicitor.  After you decide on the kind of bequest you would like to make, ask your solicitor to draft the appropriate clause or request your solicitor to contact us to discuss your wishes.  You can supplement your existing Will by adding a codicil containing instructions for your bequest. The codicil must comply with the same legal requirement as a Will.

What kind of bequest

With a residual bequest you can provide for your family and friends first and leave what is left (the residue) to BHCI. As your estate increases in value, so does your bequest. A residual bequest helps offset the effect of inflation.  By making a bequest of a percentage of your estate, the estate can be divided among a number of people and or organisations. You won’t have to remake your Will to compensate for inflation.  BHCI can receive all forms of property and can be the sole beneficiary of a life insurance policy.  Establishing a trust in your Will allows a spouse or other person to use your property and receive all of the income derived from your estate during their lifetime. When they die, the capital can then be passed on to BHCI.  A specific cash sum is a common form of bequest but because it does not allow for inflation, it needs to be reviewed regularly.