A Shropshire lawyer has warned of the potential problems of failing to make a will after a national survey revealed that nearly two thirds of people are putting it off.

The National Wills Report 2025 highlighted the statistic that only 37 per cent of those surveyed had said they had made a will - a figure significantly down on that of previous years which had consistently hovered around the 50 per cent mark.

Edward Rees, head of Lanyon Bowdler’s private client team, said the worrying decline could be attributed in part to a younger generation who saw no urgent need to make a will and others who were reluctant to discuss the idea of dying.

“There is no doubt that many people put off making a will for as long as possible because they either feel there is plenty of time later in life or they don’t feel comfortable talking about their wishes with loved ones or will-writing professionals,” he said.

“This often means that no will is made before it is too late and many people end up dying intestate, without a will. If this happens your estate will be divided according to the default rules of intestacy which may not align with your wishes.

“It is important to consider making a will even if you think that you don’t have much in the way of money or possessions. It will make everything legal and clear when it comes to settling your estate after you die and could avoid problems, disputes or unnecessary upset that might otherwise often occur.

“It is also a good idea to have that difficult conversation with loved ones about what your final wishes are and how you want them carried out. We know it is not easy and thoughts of dying are something we all want to delay for as long as possible.

“But the sad fact is, it can often catch people out and leave them unprepared to ensure things are carried out properly and in accordance with their wishes.”

He added: “The National Wills Report 2025 highlights 29 per cent of people are reluctant to have those conversations - but it can save problems and heartache for those left behind after you die.

“The low number of people making a will revealed in the report probably reflects that will writing is not as much of a concern for younger generations who are becoming older, whereas in the past it was probably something that was more of an expected thing to do.

“Of those in the survey who have made a will, it was reported that 43 per cent chose to work with a solicitor, compared to 14 per cent using a DIY kit. This clearly reveals the ongoing preference for professional guidance when creating these vitally important documents.

“It means people recognise the often complex nature of will writing and the need to get it right to minimise the problems, stress and worry for those left behind when the time comes.”

For more information about making a will, visit Lanyon Bowdler’s website at www.lblaw.co.uk