A lasting power of attorney gives you a voice and protects your decisions. They are helpful for everyone over the age of 18.
This is a legal document that makes it easier for the people you trust to support you when you need it most.
It means you keep control of certain decisions by choosing who you want to make them if you lose the power to make certain decisions. This could be temporary to help manage finances during a short hospital stay, or for longer-term decisions about your health and care.
Zoe, 52 from Macclesfield, is mum to teenage twins and a 21-year-old son who is autistic. Zoe’s husband sadly died 6 years ago, unexpectedly. Zoe also has epilepsy and feels that this made it even more important to get an LPA in place to support her three children should anything happen to her.
“Nina seemed the most natural choice to be my attorney. We are twin sisters and through whatever life has thrown at me she has always been there to support me.”
Read more about Zoe’s story: https://powerofattorney.campaign.gov.uk
How it works
There are two different types of lasting power of attorney, also known as LPAs. One covers property and finance, such as paying bills or managing bank accounts. The other covers health and care, such as medical treatment or living conditions.
When you make a lasting power of attorney you, known as the “donor”, name people you trust, known as “attorneys”. Attorneys make decisions on your behalf if you’re not able to.
The Office of the Public Guardian is responsible for registering lasting powers of attorney. Once in place the people you trust can quickly and easily step in.
What you need to know
Learn more about lasting powers of attorney: https://powerofattorney.campaign.gov.uk
Who will speak for you if you can’t speak for yourself? Join the conversation online #YourVoiceYourDecision
