The Society of Will Writers: Protecting the public for over 28 years

SWW members promote the need for valid Wills and the Society acts as a self-regulatory body. Strict membership requirements mean standards are maintained and ongoing training is provided. 

 

Many people assume legal service providers must be regulated. Although many who provide Will writing services are regulated, it isn’t a ‘reserved activity’ so it’s not a requirement. 

 

The Society aims to help people understand this and how its members can help them. Most importantly, if something goes wrong, people who use an unregulated provider don’t always have the same level of protection. The SWW was set up to help if there are problems and to help avoid them. 

 

Complaints against SWW members are rare. However, is there’s an issue that can’t be solved directly there’s a complaints procedure to help find a fair outcome. 

 

Full members contribute to a Public Indemnity Fund when they join. If a member is unable to finish their client’s work the SWW will appoint someone to complete it for them. 

 

The SWW isn’t a regulator but is does have a self-regulatory framework. This provides a set of standards that members must meet. We must: 

 

By meeting these requirements, we are allowed to carry compliance certificates, ID cards, and badges showing the ‘Safe to do business with’ mark. 

 

As an SWW Member I must have knowledge and competency to provide security for my clients. This helps to protect the public and my profession. I have trained in Will writing and continue to develop my knowledge. 

 

If you are ever concerned about someone’s credentials to write your Will you are welcome to contact me or the Society for some advice.