What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a person selected by yourself who can make decisions on your behalf. A LPA can be appointed at any time and not just when you are older.

The Health and welfare LPA can make decision about things like:

• Your daily routine, eg washing, dressing and eating
• Medical care
• Moving into a care home
• Life-sustaining treatment

The Property and financial affairs LPA can make decision about things like:

• Managing a bank or building society account
• Paying bills
• Collecting benefits or a pension
• Selling your home
• Signing your contracts

Who can I give LPA to?

You can choose from a range of people to be your LPA, they could be a friend, member of the family or an independent advocate. However, there are restrictions:

• The person appointed must be over 18
• In good mental health
• If they are to be your property and financial LPA, then they must also be financially solvent.
• They must consent to taking on the role

Can I give LPA to more than one person?

Yes, you can appoint more than one attorney if you wish to. If you choose to do so, you can decide that all actions require the signature of both attorney’s or just the one. This can be applied to different decisions or you can apply a blanket approach to all decisions.

How do I appoint an LPA?

We always recommend appointing a Lasting Power of Attorney within three months of moving into a care home.

The Government website www.gov.uk has helpful information on how to make and register a Lasting Power of Attorney. You can then apply online to register your LPA with the Office of the Public Garden.

If you don’t have an LPA, then the courts will appoint a ‘deputy’ to act on your behalf or make decisions for you if you do not have the capacity to do so yourself.