A special day at Hampton Court Palace: celebrating the difference made by Gifts in Wills
"A very informative and helpful event."
On Wednesday 13th May, we had the privilege of welcoming over 90 of our incredible supporters to this historic setting to experience something truly special. This event was a celebration of the lasting difference that gifts in wills make for people living with cancer, both now and in the future.
A warm welcome and space to connect
The day began in the beautiful Hampton Court Palace Garden Room, where supporters were welcomed with tea and coffee and the chance to connect with others.
From the outset, there was a genuine sense of warmth in the room. Many of our guests have supported Macmillan for years, and it meant so much to bring people together, not just to say thank you, but to create space for meaningful conversations.
Our guests were welcomed into the day by Macmillan’s Director of Public Fundraising, Craig Fordham, who opened the event by sharing information about Macmillan’s purpose and the vital role supporters play in helping Macmillan do whatever it takes for people living with cancer. It was a powerful moment that set the tone for the day.
“I’ve seen the difference good support can make during cancer, both in my own family and through my work at Macmillan. That’s why days like today matter so much. They bring together people who choose to leave a lasting legacy so others can feel supported, informed and cared for when they need it most, now and in the future.” – Craig Fordham
Helpful guidance on will writing
Supporters also heard from Farewill, one of Macmillan’s trusted will writing partners, who shared clear and practical guidance on writing a will.
Rourke Bulbring, Legal Counsel, shared expert guidance on:
- Key facts and figures about will writing in the UK
- Why having an up-to-date will is so important
- What to consider before writing or updating your will
- How to leave a gift to charity in your will
- Common questions and misconceptions about will writing.
Complex topics, such as inheritance tax, were explained in a simple, reassuring way, helping supporters feel more confident and informed.
For example, Farewill explained how inheritance tax can work in practice. If an estate is subject to inheritance tax, it's usually charged at 40%. However, if someone chooses to leave 10% of their estate to charity, the tax rate can be reduced to 36% meaning both loved ones and charities can benefit. Everyone's situation is unique, so if you believe that inheritance tax mighty apply to your estate then we recommend speaking to a qualified will-writing professional about your personal circumstances before making or updating your will.
There was also an opportunity to learn about the different ways to write a will through Macmillan’s Free Will Service, making it easier for supporters to take the next step, in a way that suits them.
Helpful guidance on will writing
Guests experienced a powerful reenactment of an anonymous Macmillan Support Line call, offering a glimpse into the practical and emotional support available during difficult times.
Rebecca O’Hare, Online Community Manager, then introduced the wider support Macmillan offers, highlighting the Online Community, a welcoming space where people affected by cancer can connect, share and find support whenever they need it.
“A very informative and helpful event. I have rung Macmillan’s Support Line in the past. You helped me a lot. Keep up the wonderful work that you do, you are always there to listen to me.” - Event Guest
A story that stayed with us
Angela’s reflections were one of the most moving moments of the day, and her words have stayed with us ever since.
She spoke openly about her cancer experience and the support she received from Macmillan, sharing not just what that support looked like, but what it meant during such a challenging time. Her honesty and warmth brought real depth to the day, reminding us all why this work matters.
The day came to a wonderful close and was made even more special by Angela’s soulful jazz rendition of ‘Feeling Good’, which quickly had the whole room clapping along and smiling.
“I thought the presentation given by Angela was courageous and truly inspiring” - Event Guest
Since the event, Angela has shared a deeply personal “love letter” to Macmillan, reflecting on her journey and why she now champions the charity.
If you’d like to hear more of Angela’s story in her own words, you can read her blog here.
“A very well organised event at a fabulous venue. Angela’s story was very moving, the presentation was witty and engaging for a very personal experience that was/is harrowing. All of the other presentations were very good and informative.” - Event Guest.
Angela has been a huge support to us throughout 2026, and recently featured in our ‘Made Possible by your Legacy’ campaign.
A gift that lives on
Find out more about leaving a gift in your will
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