Consider making a Lasting Power of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets you appoint one or more people (known as ‘attorneys’) to help you make decisions, or to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to. This can give you more control over what happens to you in the future. 

Making an LPA can avoid delays in making decisions for you and may also make things easier for your family.

There are two types of LPA. You can make one type or both.

• Health and welfare LPA - gives your attorney the power to make decisions about your daily routine (such as washing, dressing, eating), your medical care, moving into a care home or life-sustaining treatment. This LPA can only be used if you lose mental capacity to make these kinds of decisions for yourself.
• Property and financial affairs LPA - gives your attorney the power to make decisions about money and property for you, such as managing your bank or building society account, paying your bills, collecting your benefits or pension, or selling your home.

Both types must be registered before they can be used. There is a fee for registering each LPA, but you may be eligible for a reduction or exemption. 

See the Government’s website for more information.