Support us - legacies and individual giving

Founded on a Legacy

Without the vision and legacy from Edward Vivian Birchall, NCVO would not be the organisation it is today (read the History of NCVO).

Edward had played a large part in the voluntary sector in his short life, and before his death in France in 1916 he wrote a note (which is preserved in the Imperial War Museum) to his friend S. P. Grundy, which read

'If I am scuppered I'm leaving you £1,000 to do some of the things we talked about'

His legacy enabled the creation of the National Council of Social Services in its early years, which later changed its name to the National Council for Voluntary Organisations.

Leaving a legacy

Like Edward Birchall, everyone should have a will, because without one there is no guarantee that your belongings will be distributed according to your wishes.

If you do not have a will, your spouse or partner may not inherit all of your estate and the law will decide who inherits your property. A will is also an easy way to support your favourite charitie and voluntary organisations.

Remember a Charity provides information to help ensure your wishes are carried out and latest charity information. 

The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) is also able to assist you and give impartial and confidential advice on how to set up a will and/or add the correct clauses.

If you are interested in leaving a legacy to NCVO to help support and maintain a vibrant civil society for future generations, please read this free guide to making a will (PDF from Remember a Charity) or contact Simon Hill:

• Telephone: 020 7520 2495
• Email Simon Hill