Legacy giving has risen by 13%, reaching record levels and marking 2024 down as the most generous year on record for charities.

New data released by will writer, Farewill shows the Southwest is the most generous region, with 34.4% of wills including a charitable donation.

Yorkshire and the Humber closely followed in its generosity, with 34.1% of gifts in wills deriving from this area.

Greater London (25.2%) and Scotland (22.2%) are least likely to include a charitable gift in their will, the research found.

Meanwhile, baby boomers are most generous at 42.2% and millennials show growing engagement, accounting for 23% of legacy gifts.

Health charities remain the most popular organisations to donate to, although there has been an increase in homelessness and mental health causes.

Over 10% of those leaving a gift to a mental health charity also included a homelessness charity in their will, recognising the link between housing instability and mental health.

“It’s inspiring to see more people choosing to leave a legacy gift, even in uncertain financial times,” Farewill CEO and co-founder, Dan Garrett said.

“Legacy giving enables individuals to make a lasting impact without affecting their current finances, and this year’s record-breaking generosity is a testament to the power of charitable giving,” he added.

“For charities, the continued rise in legacy pledges highlights the importance of fostering meaningful connections with supporters. Ensuring the process is simple and demonstrating the impact of these gifts will help charities continue their vital work for generations to come.”

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