Your Last Gift – Getting Your Affairs in Order

This compact and very readable book is described as being ‘about as useful as a book can be’ by no less a luminary than Stephen Fry – and I would certainly agree.  

It neatly encompasses principally both wills and estate administration, while also sensitively bridging the gap between the two that can perhaps be overlooked.

The book guides the reader through the various matters to consider when making a will, as well as picking up other lifetime planning such as powers of attorney and advance decisions.

It addresses considerations of both people and possessions (and in that order) and gently suggests other points and practicalities to ease the bereavement journey of one’s nearest and dearest.

I liked the practical aspect of the book. Purchasing it provides access to the secure part of the website yourlastgiftbook.com. This contains accessible and adaptable forms and checklists to support the book’s guidance.

The author’s background as a solicitor and tax adviser, together with his pastoral experience, shines through, blending clear-sighted advice with compassion.

The book highlights the ways in which all of us can reflect on what matters to us most and what steps we can take to place and keep our affairs in order.

This is both a practical reference for practitioners and a kind and sensible marshalling of information which one could also recommend to clients.

Laura Pickett is a private client solicitor at Bonallack & Bishop Solicitors, Salisbury