Estate Planning Gains a Personalised Touch with Funding
- Marta Macialek
- May 4
- 3 min read
Founder Gary Tonsley’s devastating loss at an early age spurred him on to create Westwood Estate Planning to support others’ financial wellbeing.
Funded by Start Up Loans
£8,000 boost towards:
Building financial wellbeing awareness
Educating potential clients
Hire additional support staff
Region: Lincolnshire
What does your business do and how is it different from competitors?
My business provides personalised estate planning services, including wills, trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney arrangements, and inheritance tax paying. Unlike competitors, I focus on creating tailored solutions that address not only my clients’ needs but also their long-term goals.
Additionally, I collaborate closely with financial service professionals to ensure not only peace of mind for clients’ loved ones, but also a secure and prosperous financial future for my clients.
What inspired you to start your business?
I experienced first-hand the challenges families face when estate planning isn’t addressed properly. My mother passed away when I was 11 years old, with no plan in place for our family’s finances.
When I received the inheritance, I felt I wasn’t truly equipped to make suitable long-term decisions and looking back I recognise that proper guidance from a specialist would have gone a long way in navigating life without her.
This inspired me to create a service that ensures others can protect their loved ones from unnecessary challenges and secure their future with confidence.
How is your background related to your business?
I hold a Law Degree from The University of Lincoln and I am a Member of the Institute of Professional Willwriters (MIPW), ensuring that I have the expertise to offer trusted advice.
My career path has been rooted in legal and financial services, which equips me to address complex estate planning challenges effectively.
What challenges have you faced when starting your business?
One of my key challenges has been building awareness around the importance of estate planning in a market where it’s often overlooked until it’s too late.
The loan will support initiatives to educate potential clients and partners through seminars, newsletters, and partnerships with financial advisors, helping to build trust and visibility for Westwood Estate Planning.
Comments from our Advisor, the Founder, and our Partner, British Business Bank
“Working with Gary has been a fantastic experience. He was incredibly helpful and proactive in providing all the necessary documents promptly, which made the process seamless. His business plan and cash flow projections were well-prepared, reflecting his thorough understanding and dedication to his business.
Service-based businesses like Westwood Estate Planning are my favourite to work with, and this collaboration was truly a win-win for both of us. I have no doubt that Gary’s efforts to educate clients and expand his services will lead to great success.”
Comments Petra Eddison, Business Advisor at First Enterprise
“My experience with First Enterprise has been fantastic. The support and guidance from my Business Adviser, Petra, has been invaluable in helping me navigate the complexities funding to grow my business. Her insights have made the process smoother and more effective.”
Comments Gary Tonsley, Founder of Westwood Estate Planning
“Westwood Estates Planning provides a valuable service to residents in Lincolnshire and the surrounding area, and funding from the Start Up Loans programme should offer them the opportunity to reach out and support more people than ever before.”
Comments Richard Bearman, Co-Chief Banking Officer at British Business Bank
First Enterprise is a responsible finance provider offering unsecured loans ranging from £500 to £250,000 to support both start-ups and established businesses across the UK. Since 2011, First Enterprise has lent over £77 million to 7,305 businesses.
Learn more about how we can support your business.
