How gifts in Wills make a difference

Between 2021 and 2024, Terrence Higgins Trust raised over £17m to help support people living with HIV, and of that income, £7.9m (47%) came from gifts in Wills.

Thanks to gifts left in Wills by people like you, we’re able to support people at every stage of their journey, from diagnosis to ageing with HIV.  

THT Direct

Our helpline service is the first point of call for those newly diagnosed and those with questions about HIV. Thanks to gifts left in Wills we answered 12,591 enquiries last year.  

Testing and Prevention

In 2017, Terrence Higgins Trust received a remarkable gift left in the Will of actor Alec McCowen CBE. Within a year, his generosity made it possible for us to introduce our free HIV self-testing service, the first service of its kind in Europe. His kindness created a legacy that continues to transform lives today. More than 90,000 HIV selftesting kits later, Alec’s choice to remember Terrence Higgins Trust in his Will has had a remarkable and lasting impact: enabling testing, helping people learn their status, and supporting them to access lifesaving medication. 

Gill’s story 

‘My brother, Andy, died of AIDS related illnesses in 1990, and I’ve been supporting Terrence Higgins Trust ever since.  

‘I’m proud of the impact Terrence Higgins Trust has had on treatments, rights and support for people with HIV. But I know there’s still so much to do. I want to see more awareness of HIV in general, because many people don’t think it’s a problem anymore. Statistics show a different story, and we know that the levels of diagnosis are too high. 

‘I also want to support Terrence Higgins Trust to continue making an impact on education, welfare and counselling. But ultimately, I’d like to see an end to new HIV cases. 

‘That’s why I’m leaving a gift in my Will to Terrence Higgins Trust, so their vital work can continue. But I’m also determined to keep the memory of my brother alive so, just like Terry Higgins, his death won’t have been in vain.’ 

Gill, long-term supporter, volunteer and legacy pledger.  

David’s story  

‘I first joined London Lighthouse in 1994, a place that became a lifeline for people living with HIV at a time when fear and stigma were everywhere. Back then, some patients were kept in isolation wards, with staff wearing what looked like space suits. Many were rejected by their families and communities. 

‘At London Lighthouse, we offered something different. We offered compassion, dignity, and safety. We provided hospice care, buddying, counselling, and a refuge where people were treated as human beings. I’ll never forget the candle burning at reception, marking yet another life lost. Those were painful years, but they taught me the value of care, respect, and hope. 

‘When London Lighthouse merged with Terrence Higgins Trust, I continued my commitment: as Chair, as a donor, and now through my Will. Including Terrence Higgins Trust in my Will feels like the natural continuation of my life’s work. 

‘A gift in your Will can ensure no one faces HIV alone, and help end new cases of HIV. It’s a way to keep compassion and the support of people living with HIV alive, to create a brighter future.’ 

James’ story

‘When I lost my best friend to an HIV-related illness, I got in touch with Terrence Higgins Trust. They were so helpful, understanding and compassionate at a very difficult time. Leaving a gift in my Will is like a way of honouring my friend and doing my bit to make things better for people with HIV in the future.’