Will you consider leaving a gift in your will?
“The one who plants trees, knowing that he will never sit in their shade, has at least started to understand the meaning of life.”
There are many different versions of this quote from across the world – the sentiment is universal. We all aspire to plant those trees, and hope that the legacy of our lives will have made the world a better place for future generations.
This often means making everyday choices, big and small, which reflect our values – from the goods and services we consume, to the campaigns we support, and the way we interact with the people in our lives. Leaving a gift in your will is the same – choosing to see the things that matter to you flourish, even after you are gone.
Income from gifts in wills
In the last five years*, 20% of Transform Trade’s income has come from gifts in wills, totalling over £1.7 million. It’s difficult to overstate the enormous impact of those donations, all thanks to a small group of generous supporters – people just like you.
These gifts in wills have given producers the skills and tools they need to fight for better pay and opportunities for themselves and their communities. Donations have helped people to:
Earn more income though new skills and greater bargaining power.
Protect their land and adapt to the challenges of climate change.
Make their voices heard in their industry and local government.
Ultimately, every gift funds the fight for a fairer trade system for everyone, regardless of where they live, or what supply chain they work in.
Life changing impact
Transform Trade works with groups of tea workers at estates in West Bengal, India. Historically, these workers have been tied to the tea estates, losing their housing if the family no longer works there.
Recently, these self-help groups have been helping young people access new opportunities to earn higher incomes beyond the tea estates. Rani Santhal, knew from a young age she didn’t wish to work on the tea estate:
“I knew I had to do something to improve things. I got the opportunity to attend a hotel management training offered through Radha self-help group. The trainer from the NGO encouraged me to join. Our family’s situation was difficult at the time, and I thought this might be a way to earn and support my home.
The Radha self-help group helped connect me to the training that changed everything for me. Without that link, I wouldn’t have found this opportunity. It gave me a path forward when I had none.
My first job was in a four-star hotel in Baroda called Tarason... This income gave me independence. It also helped me support my family and feel proud of myself. I’ve had to come back home temporarily because of my mother’s health, I still want to return to work.”
Gifts in wills help people like Rani to pursue their goals and rewrite their families’ futures.
If you’d like to set up a gift in your will, you can learn how at our gifts in wills page.
Any questions?
If you’re interested in having a conversation about leaving a gift in your will, you can speak with Sarah McQuaid, our Fundraising Lead, and ask any questions you might have. Call 0191 497 6445 or send an email to hello@transform-trade.org