WILTSHIRE solicitors Goughs have identified an extra cause of stress and worry among older people self-isolating through the coronavirus outbreak: have I made a will, or is my will up-to-date.

The fact that these people are obeying Government instructions and staying indoors, avoiding contact with everyone, is adding to the stress for those who realise that they have not got their affairs in order, because a will must have a witnessed signature.

After hearing from clients about this dilemma, Goughs have come up with a creative solution: Wills through a Window.

If you instruct one of their solicitors online, by phone or using FaceTime, WhatsApp video or Skype, they will prepare the paperwork, bring it to your home and then witness your signature through the window before taking the document back to the office for safekeeping.

Emma Taylor, head of the Goughs Solicitors' Private Client department, said: "Our number one priority is the health and safety of our clients and staff. Wills through a Window is already making a positive impact on our clients who can have peace of mind they have a valid will in place but also that they are not putting themselves at risk doing so.

“Our Dementia Friends have undergone individual training to help them to identify some of the additional support someone with dementia might need. Whether this is the client themselves or a loved one who they are trying to protect, we have the background knowledge to ensure that we identify these issues from the outset and can make the entire journey easier and more approachable for all.”

She explained why it is so important to make a will, explaining: "Preparing and keeping a will up-to-date has become the easiest and most cost-effective way of ensuring that property, possessions and affairs are dealt with in accordance with our personal wishes upon death.

"By making a will you can ensure that any specific intentions you have for your home, money or possessions are carried out in accordance with your wishes, avoiding unnecessary difficulties for grieving family and friends.

"If you die without a will, your estate will be distributed according to strict rules meaning the people you love may lose out.

"Unmarried partners and partners who have not registered a civil partnership cannot inherit from each other unless there’s a will, so the death of a partner may create serious financial problems for the remaining partner.

"If you are concerned about your financial legacy and the taxes your estate might be exposed to, we can evaluate your estate and your exposure and ensure that you are fully aware of the tax implications to any intentions you have for your will, if necessary, then advising on tax or estate planning which they feel is appropriate to you.

"Our Solicitors for the Elderly members have undertaken specific assessments to ensure that they understand the issues facing the elderly and vulnerable and can provide advice in an informed, empathetic and individual way. They are dedicated to putting people at ease when discussing complex and important issues with a Plain English approach.

"Get in touch with the Private Client team to find out more on how we will support you or a loved one during these challenging times."

To find out more about the services the firm, which has offices in Calne, Chippenham, Corsham, Devizes, Melksham and Trowbridge, go to www.goughs.co.uk/site/individuals/wills/willstrustandprobateappointments.html