Wildlife purpose trust

I have a client who wishes to leave his home and garden by Will as a haven for wildlife. Having looked at the Charity Commission’s guidance it does not appear to have any special need for conservation in itself. Unless it comes under another heading of charitable purpose, it would be void. If he were to make it a recreation park for the people of his village or locality, would that work? Is there any other way he could achieve his aim?

Richard Mugford
Mugford & Co Wills (Fareham) Ltd

Hi Richard

Is there a IHT tax planning element to your clients intentions?

Richard Bishop
PFEP

No, he has made it bird and wildlife friendly and wants it to remain so after his death. There is nothing that makes it different to what any amateur gardener and wildlife enthusiast could create.

I have suggested that he contacts existing charities to see if they would accept the gift, failing which he could set up a charity in his lifetime and find out sooner rather than later if it would be accepted by the Charity Commission.

Regards

Richard Mugford
Mugford & Co Wills (Fareham) Ltd