Less than half of Britons have drafted a will, survey finds | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleVicky ShawSaturday 07 March 2026 02:09 GMTThe figures are even lower for charitable bequests, with just 14 per cent including a gift in their will (Gareth Fuller/PA)New research reveals that while 61 per cent of Britons aspire to leave a positive mark on the world, only 39 per cent have formalised their wishes through a will.The survey, conducted by Opinium for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (Gosh Charity), found that charitable bequests are even lower, with just 14 per cent including a gift in their will.Over half (52 per cent) of respondents highlighted the importance of their lifetime actions benefiting future generations, yet many have not acted on this sentiment.Key life moments, such as the death of a loved one or becoming a parent, often prompt people to reflect on the legacy they want to leave behind.Despite the impact of all donations, nearly half (46 per cent) of those surveyed believe a small financial gift of up to £100 would make little difference to a charity, a misconception Gosh Charity aims to address.In fullMost Britons want to leave a legacy, but less than half have drafted a willThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in