Latest Smee & Ford data shows percentage of charitable estates and bequest volumes are tracking in line with 2022

Smee & Ford data up to the end of July 2023 shows that approximately 13.8% of probated estates with Wills are charitable, despite fewer cases being processed than at the same point in 2022.

This number has grown by 1.2% since the Legacy Strategy Summit in June, where we reported that it was below the usual level, at around 12.6%.

The value of charitable estates has also increased in recent weeks, rising from the £9.3bn reported in June to £11.2bn by the end of July.

The number of bequests is sitting at a proportionate level to the number of cases we have processed compared with 2022.

We will continue to track and provide information to support the sector throughout the rest of the year and as we receive more records from HMCTS.

For more information on Smee & Ford legacy giving data feel free to get in touch or learn more here.