A scheme inviting local people to make a single or joint will in return for a donation to the Naomi House & Jacksplace Hospice has been launched.

Make Your Will Fortnight will take place between Monday, October 28 and Friday, November 8. Law firms across the county, including Kitson & Trotman in Weymouth, will waive their standard will writing fee on the requirement that customers make a donation to the hospice charity instead.

Paul Morgan, director of fundraising and communications at Naomi House and Jacksplace, said: "We are delighted that such highly regarded local solicitors have agreed to support our appeal. Make Your Will Fortnight is a wonderful opportunity to support Naomi House & Jacksplace, while ensuring you have secured your loved ones' futures."

He added: "Everyone can benefit from making or reviewing their will, particularly if you have recently moved house, had children, divorced, retired or married. In doing so, you will be helping hundreds of seriously ill children, young adults and their families from your local area and across central southern England."

Staff at Naomi House & Jacksplace Hospice hope the campaign will raise more than £20,000, an amount that would allow their family support team to care for up to 10 families, offering crucial post-bereavement support following the painful loss of a child.

The hospices offer 24/7 support 365 days a year to life-limited and life-threatened children, young adults and families living in Dorset and beyond. Located in Winchester, the newly refurbished Naomi House has 11 children's bedrooms and a number of family rooms, as well as a multi-sensory room, a hydrotherapy pool and dedicated spaces for music and art therapy.

Jacksplace is a separate hospice with six beds for young people aged 16 and over. Both hospices also offer end of life care and post-bereavement support for friends and family.

The charity requires £9.2 million each year to run a full service and receives less than 11% of its income from statutory sources, relying heavily on fundraising and donations. Individuals wishing to take part in the Make Your Will Fortnight should contact their chosen solicitors between the above stated dates. The appointment must be booked within this fortnight but does not have to take place during this time frame.

For more information and full details of participating law firms, visit www.naomihouse.org.uk/makeyourwill