“The RHS has given me a lifetime of inspiration, tranquillity, horticultural skills and knowledge. I would like to help generations of gardeners to share my passion.” - Mrs Anne Fragniere, RHS member
Useful information
Why does the RHS need legacies?
Gifts in Wills provide vital income to the RHS. As a charity we receive no government support and much of our work can only continue through additional funding, including legacies.
Can I choose where you spend my legacy?
Yes, you can specify how your money is spent. However leaving a gift for us to use in the way that allows us the most flexibility and is of most benefit, means that we can use funds where they are most needed given time.
Can I be sure that you will spend my gift where I want it to be spent?
We will endeavour to spend your gift as you have requested. However in some circumstances where there are very specific terms attached to your legacy, we may not be able to spend or accept it if the terms do not fall under our remit of work.
We do therefore ask if you intend to leave your gift for very specific purposes that you discuss it with us so that we can ensure that we can carry out your wishes.
We will very happily arrange meetings with our science and education departments, and gardens staff if you wish to discuss our work further.
What are the inheritance tax implications of leaving a legacy?
The RHS is a charity and money left to a charity is exempt from inheritance tax. Your solicitor will advise you if you could be liable to pay inheritance tax on your estate and can suggest ways of minimising your liability. For more information on inheritance tax and the latest inheritance tax threshold contact HM Revenue & Customs.
How do I make a will?
A valid Will is the only guaranteed way for your wishes to be carried out and for your legacy to reach the RHS. Making a Will isn't complicated and shouldn’t be costly. We strongly recommend that you use a solicitor to prepare your Will.
Find out more about making a Will
What shall I write on my legacy to the RHS?
View our suggested wording for leaving a legacy to the RHS
Where can I find a solicitor?
Visit the Law Society website to help you find a solicitor
Can the RHS be one of my executors?
Unfortunately, the RHS is unable to act as an executor. We recommend that you choose two executors, who can be a professional advisor, family member or friend. Your solicitor will advise you as to the eligibility of a chosen executor.
Will my legacy be remembered in some way?
As a way of saying thank you, the RHS will send every legacy pledger a young tree, generously donated to the RHS from Oakover Nurseries in Kent.
There are three types to choose from - field maple, whitebeam and English oak and they have been specially selected to suit all soil types and gardens. We hope they will be a living reminder of your commitment to the RHS and something that can be enjoyed in your lifetime.
Can I choose how much I want to leave and does it have to be for a lot of money?
You can specify exactly how much you would like to leave to the RHS and no, it doesn't have to be a lot of money; any contribution is much appreciated towards supporting our work.
Can I talk to someone who can answer my queries about Will making and leaving a legacy to the RHS?
A member of the RHS Legacy Department would be happy to answer your queries.
Contact us
The Development Office
RHS
80 Vincent Square
London
SW1P 2PE
Tel: 020 7821 3125
developmentoffice@rhs.org.uk