The impact of the coronavirus has affected many jobs in many different ways, but for Michelle Deane, a member of the Wills Probate + Tax Planning team at local solicitors Thatcher + Hallam, the arrival of COVID-19 has had one specific impact that she would never have anticipated.

'Since the start of lockdown, as I deal mainly with clients wishing to make Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney, I have been classified as a designated key worker,' explains Michelle. 'Before lockdown, most but not all of the clients I dealt with were probably in their 40s at least, with many clients either retired or about to retire. However, since the arrival of the coronavirus, I have witnessed a real change in attitude of the younger generation. Suddenly, many of those in their late twenties or early thirties are now asking us to help them out in planning ahead for their family's future.

Prior to lockdown back in March, Michelle explains how difficult it was to persuade the younger generation to make a Will.

'I understand the younger generation very well,' says Michelle. 'We all remember the time when we thought that we were invincible and dying was what happened to older people and not the fun-loving young set where the motto 'Carpe Diem' was the order of the day. Making a Will just never came on to the agenda.'

However, since March Michelle and her colleagues detected a big change in attitude and thinking.

'Suddenly, those in their 20's and early 30's are now approaching me asking to make a Will,' explains Michelle. 'I do not think that it is fear of the coronavirus itself that has prompted this sea change in attitude. Statistically, those in that age group are considered at low risk of contracting the disease. What has happened however is that the coronavirus has prompted a re-evaluation of where we are all now at here in 2020. All of us of whatever age have had to look at old certainties begin to crumble. Suddenly, no one knows what is around the corner and how it could impact on us and our families.'

'The younger generation now wanting to make a Will cite either buying their first house or having children as being the main reason why they want a Will,' adds Michelle. 'They want to make sure that their assets go to the right people and that their children are looked after into the future. I have had many queries about the guardianship clause contained in most Wills on what should happen to the children in the event of the death of both parents.'

Michelle lives locally with her husband Des, and three children aged 12 , 11 and 6. Her family has also just taken on responsibility for a rescue puppy Keela.

'I am really fortunate that I love my job,' says Michelle. 'I have really enjoyed the satisfaction of giving clients some certainty and peace of mind, even when it means having a Will signed and witnessed over walls, through windows or even on a garden table. Whether aged 29 or 79 I am more than happy to speak to anyone on why they should make a Will. Making a Will is also affordable.'

Details on how to go about making a Will are available on the firm's website here : the Thatcher + Hallam website