According to the Childhood Bereavement Network, in the UK every 22 minutes a child loses a parent. Whilst parents don’t like to think of such scenarios, do you know who would look after your children should you die?

Following the death of the last surviving parent, if there is no will in place nominating a guardian the children automatically become the responsibility of the Court. The Court will eventually appoint a guardian, but in the interim the children could go into care.

However, by putting a Will in place, specifying who you wish to care for your children after you’ve gone, can provide you with peace of mind that they will be provided for.

Although, ultimately the family Court decides who has guardianship of the children, it is unusual for them to overturn your decision, unless there is a very good reason why this would be detrimental to the children’s welfare.

A Will stating your preferred guardian, enables you to speak with them about your wishes and enable the child to get to know and trust them whilst you are alive. Then the guardianship can transfer immediately upon the death of the last surviving parent.

If you would like to discuss drawing up a Will then please use our contact form, drop me an email or give me a call on 0808 146 9295.