After 24 years in military service, Rachel Robb transitioned into Will Writing and Estate Planning with the same discipline, clarity and calm that defined her armed forces career. Now a Partner with Simon Hall Will Writing Services, she’s based in Taunton and supports families across Somerset and online. In this engaging interview, business journalist Al Gibson uncovers what drives Rachel’s unique approach and why her background makes her a trusted guide in even the most sensitive conversations.
Al: What inspired you to move from military service to Will Writing, and how does that background help you support clients now?
Rachel Robb: Following more than two decades of military service, from solider through to commissioned officer, specialising in leadership, intelligence and aviation, I craved a new path that balanced purpose, connection and meaningful impact. Joining Simon Hall Will Writing Services allowed me to continue supporting people during pivotal moments in life but shifting from operational commitments to guiding families in planning their legacy. My military experience taught me discipline, attention to detail, situational awareness and emotional intelligence – all qualities that serve me well when helping clients navigate Estate challenges with empathy and professionalism.
Al: What’s it like being based in Taunton? Is that the main area you serve or do you work nationally?
Rachel Robb: Being based in Taunton is a privilege. It’s a community I’m deeply rooted in, and I offer home visits locally as well as online appointments for nearby towns like Wellington and beyond. While Somerset is my local focus, through Simon Hall we also serve online nationally, so geography isn’t a barrier. People across the UK can access our friendly, supportive Will Writing service.
Al: In your experience do you find most people see the value of having a Will? Or do they put off Estate Planning until later life. Are there any myths about Will Writing you have come across?
Rachel Robb: Many people understand the value of having a Will, seeing it as essential peace of mind for loved ones. Yet quite a few still put it off, often thinking they’re too young, don’t have enough assets, or assuming it’s too complex or costly. A common myth is that only lawyers can draft valid Wills or that DIY kits are sufficient. In reality, poorly drafted Wills can lead to unintended consequences. Our role is to demystify the process and make it accessible and clear, helping people to act now rather than wait.
Al: When you aren’t writing Wills I hear you are a Personal Safety Trainer, teaching self-defence. Is there any parallel with that and Will Writing?
Rachel Robb: While personal safety training is about situational awareness, resilience and avoiding danger before it arises, there is a meaningful parallel with Will Writing. Both services empower individuals: one prepares you to recognise risks to personal safety and avoid them, the other helps you foresee life’s uncertainties and plan accordingly. In both, our aim is prevention, not reaction.
Al: Tell us about the Night Witch personal safety and resilience consultancy you co-founded. Night Witch sounds like a derogatory term yet during WW2 these women were feared for their bravery. Tell us more…
Rachel Robb: The name ‘Night Witches’ pays tribute to the legendary all-female Soviet night bomber regiment of WWII. Flying outdated biplanes under cover of darkness, they harassed German positions with fearless precision and ingenuity. The Nazis called them Nachthexen, ‘Night Witches’, not out of mockery, but because they feared their silent approach and relentless resolve. These women were pioneers in aviation, defying stereotypes and expectations in both warfare and flight.
Our consultancy draws inspiration from their courage, discipline and refusal to be underestimated. At Night Witch, our ethos is simple: always be aware, always seek to avoid placing yourself in harm’s way and build resilience, mentally and physically. Whether working with corporate teams, young people or those needing personal safety training, our goal is to empower others through education, mindset and preparation, not fear.
Al: I like what you say about avoiding harm wherever possible. Being alert and prepared is key especially when it comes to protecting one’s family and their future. That is what Simon Hall Will Writing Services does. It’s also great to see how the company celebrates women in business. What’s it like working with Simon and Linda?
Rachel Robb: Working with Simon Hall Will Writing Services has been both supportive and empowering. Simon and Linda foster a culture grounded in integrity, humility and genuine people-first values. From day one, they’ve embraced me as one of their Partners, not because of gender but because of experience, capability, and alignment with their vision.
What I respect most is that both Simon and Linda share my belief in emotional intelligence, and in the power of diverse teams. They understand that collaboration, trust, and a variety of perspectives lead to better outcomes, not just in business, but in how we support people through some of life’s most emotional and personal decisions.
Though I embrace my gender and am proud to contribute to increasing visibility of women in business, it does not define me. I strive for recognition through achievement, credibility and excellence. That mindset is something Simon Hall and Linda wholeheartedly share. They value performance, professionalism and the human touch qualities that make a lasting difference in the lives of the families we support.
Al: Why do you think people put off getting their Wills done and what’s your advice for them?
Rachel Robb: Often people delay because the topic feels emotional or uncomfortable, especially if they equate it with mortality, legal jargon, or cost. My advice: start with a free, informal chat. Estate Planning isn’t about morbidity; it’s about caring for those you love and gaining peace of mind. A simple Will is often quicker, more affordable and far more valuable than you think.
Al: Can you share a story about how having a proper Will made a huge difference for a family?
Rachel Robb: Absolutely. I once supported a family where, sadly, the deceased had drafted their own Will at home without professional advice. They had written their wishes clearly and even had it signed and witnessed, but unfortunately the two witnesses had signed at different times, not in each other’s presence.
Under the Wills Act 1837, for a Will to be legally valid, it must be signed by the testator in the presence of two independent witnesses, who must also be present at the same time and witness each other signing. Because this crucial legal requirement wasn’t met, the Will was not properly executed and it would not have passed Probate.
The family were devastated, as the person’s wishes could not be legally upheld. Instead, the Estate had to be distributed under the rules of intestacy, which didn’t reflect what the deceased had clearly intended. It caused distress, delays and unnecessary conflict at an already emotional time.
This is why it’s so important to get proper guidance. It’s not just about writing down your wishes, it’s about ensuring your Will is legally robust and won’t fail when your loved ones need it most.
Al: What’s your favourite part of visiting clients in their homes. Why does that matter to people?
Rachel Robb: Home visits matter because they offer confidentiality and reassurance. I can listen without rushing, answer questions face‑to‑face, and adjust my pace to what feels right for each person. It humanises what can feel like a daunting process.
Rachel Robb (far right) with part of the Simon Hall Will Writing Team.
Al: What makes Simon Hall Will Writing Services different from using a solicitor or DIY Will kit?
Rachel Robb: At Simon Hall Will Writing Services, we offer bespoke, professional planning that’s accessible, jargon-free and tailored to each client’s needs. What sets us apart is the personal touch, we take the time to really listen and guide people through what can often feel like a daunting process.
Solicitors absolutely have an important role and offer expert legal services, particularly where complex Estates are involved. That said, our clients often tell us they appreciate the more relaxed, approachable atmosphere we provide, combined with clear explanations and home visits if needed.
As for DIY kits, while they may seem convenient, they can unintentionally leave out key details or fail to meet legal requirements, which may only come to light when it’s too late.
Ultimately, it’s about peace of mind. At Simon Hall, we aim to make the process reassuring and straightforward, with clear pricing and compassionate guidance every step of the way.
Al: Why should someone consider a Lasting Power of Attorney alongside a Will?
Rachel Robb: A Will takes care of us after we pass, it ensures that our wishes are respected and that our loved ones are provided for in the way we intended.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), however, is just as important. It protects us while we’re still alive, allowing someone we trust to make crucial decisions on our behalf if we’re ever unable to, whether through illness, accident, or age-related conditions.
Without an LPA in place, we’ve unfortunately seen the very real emotional and financial impact families can face. Gaining access to accounts, managing care, or making urgent decisions becomes a lengthy and often expensive legal process, causing unnecessary delays at an already difficult time.
Together, a Will and LPA offer comprehensive protection ensuring your wishes are honoured both in life and after and providing clarity and support for those you care about most.
Al: What’s the best age or life stage to think about getting a Will?
Rachel Robb: Any adult can benefit from having a Will, especially if you have dependents, own property or assets, or have specific wishes about things like guardianship, pets, or how your Estate should be divided. Even in your 20s or 30s, it’s wise to have a clear plan in place.
It’s particularly important for cohabiting couples to be aware that, in the eyes of the law, ‘common law’ partners do not have the same rights as married couples. Without a valid Will, your partner may not automatically inherit your Estate, no matter how long you’ve been together. That can lead to stress and financial uncertainty at an already emotional time.
A Will gives you control, peace of mind, and the assurance that your wishes will be honoured. And as life changes, through marriage, children, or receiving an inheritance, updating your Will is a simple and sensible step to keep everything aligned with your circumstances.
Al: How do you make something as emotional as Estate Planning feel more comfortable for people?
Rachel Robb: By building trust and using empathy. I listen, reassure that it’s normal to feel emotional and I break down the process into simple steps. I aim to offer gentle humour where it helps, clarity in explanations and always maintain a safe space to talk.
Al: Thanks Rachel. What’s the best way for someone to book a free consultation with you?
Rachel Robb: They can reach me directly by calling: 01823 746 180 or via email: Rachel@simonhall.info.
Al Gibson
Al Gibson is a business journalist based in Exeter. He started Countdown Creative in 2020 offering copywriting services to local companies, charities and organisations.