Estate of Denial:  The vast majority of Brits will not talk openly about inheritance, despite the fact that 40 per cent of people expect to receive one.

According to new research from Aviva, two-thirds of those surveyed would not discuss inheritance openly with their parents.

However, 76 per cent of those questioned said that they would be happy for their parents to use equity from their property to fund their retirement – even if it meant reducing their inheritance.

Retirement director at Aviva Clive Bolton said: “Despite the British taboo of discussing inheritance, it seems that three-quarters of Britons are happy for their parents to use the cash in their property to enjoy a better lifestyle in retirement.”