A survey has revealed that 17 per cent of adults are unaware that they can leave money or possessions to charities in their wills.

The survey, commissioned by Cancer Research UK, found that one in six respondents did not know about this option for supporting organisations after they pass away.

However, almost a third of those surveyed who do have a will said they have included a gift to a charity.

Three-quarters of respondents who have chosen to leave a charitable gift in their will did so with the intention of helping future generations.

Additionally, 83 per cent have decided to leave a gift in their will for causes that matter to them individually.

Clare Moore, director of legacies at Cancer Research UK said: "Gifts in wills fund a third of Cancer Research UK’s vital work, enabling us to invest in pioneering trials and long-term research projects.

"When someone writes Cancer Research UK into their will, they’re helping to create a future that could protect the ones they love."

However, the research also found that over half of those surveyed do not have a will, including 40 per cent of over 55s.

Dr Sam Godfrey, science engagement lead at Cancer Research UK, said: "We’ve played a role in around half of the world’s essential cancer drugs, led the development of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and paved the way for targeted treatments.

"We want to bring about a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer and gifts in wills are critical to our mission."

A testament to this is cancer survivor and mother of two, Deborah Huggons, 67, who has dedicated a gift to Cancer Research UK in her will, after witnessing the charity’s work first hand through her battle with breast cancer.

Ms Huggons said: "My husband and I decided to leave something to Cancer Research UK in our Wills because we have had so much help and support from the charity. 

"Reading about the progress being made against cancer gave me confidence at the time and, now that my children are in their 20s, it provides hope for the world they will grow old in.

"I hope sharing my experience will inspire others to consider leaving a gift in their will, so the charity can help save many more lives."

Another concern raised by Cancer Research UK is the need for individuals to regularly reconsider their wills.

If you are considering leaving a gift in your will, or want to learn how to do so, search ‘Cancer Research UK gifts in wills’ or visit the charity's website.