An Ilkley law firm has committed to planting a tree every time a client makes or updates a will, as part of a partnership with Yorkshire Dales Millenium Trust (YDMT).
The new initiative aims to encourage more people to make a will, whilst also having a positive impact on the environment.
LCF Law first started working with YDMT in September 2022 - the charity helps the people, landscapes and wildlife of the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding urban areas. The firm has already enabled the planting of 1,000 trees through YDMT, which will capture an estimated 160 tonnes of carbon over the next 50 years.
Neil Shaw from LCF Law said: “New research from The Association of Lifetime Lawyers shows that almost half of UK adults don’t have a will in place, which is as an alarming figure. Having a will not only reduces the burden on loved ones after death, but also minimises the risk of disputes that can be costly to resolve, both in terms of time and money. The only way to ensure a person’s wishes are carried out is by properly communicating them legally through a will.
“By working with YDMT to plant a tree in the name of every person making or updating a will with us throughout 2024, we will not only be protecting their assets, but creating a sustainable legacy for future generations. We anticipate our partnership with YDMT will see at least another 1,000 trees planted in 2024.”
Over the last 25 years YDMT has delivered diverse and inspirational projects that help to create habitats for wildlife, tackle climate change and connect marginalised groups with nature. Richard Hore, a development officer for the charity said: “Our growing partnership with LCF Law will play a key role in our woodland creation efforts, enabling the planting and management of native broadleaf woodlands that help to tackle climate change and nature loss. This is especially important in the Dales where woodland cover is the lowest of any UK National Park.
“The LCF Law tree planting scheme will not only offset the paper used to create each will but as each tree continues to thrive, it will capture carbon and support biodiversity, passing the environmental benefits down to future generations.”Neil added: “Once a client has made or updated a will with us and their tree is planted, they will receive details of the woodland's location, so they can visit it and see it grow, which is something unique and rewarding for everyone.”
As well as funding the planting of so many trees, volunteers from LCF Law regularly work with YDMT, creating and maintaining vital woodland habitats for people and nature to enjoy.
For more details on how to make or update a will and have a tree planted visit: https://lcf.co.uk/personal-services/wealth-inheritance-estates/wills/one-tree-for-every-will/