Lincolnshire families ‘at risk’ without Power of Attorney, expert warns
Baston specialist says many wrongly believe next of kin gives them legal rights in a crisis
Families across Lincolnshire are being warned they could be left unable to make vital decisions for loved ones if they don’t have a Power of Attorney in place.
New figures suggest around 92% of adults in the UK haven’t set one up – meaning millions could face delays accessing money, arranging care or making medical decisions if someone loses mental capacity.
Claire Hawkins, from Baston, who works with Standard Life and supports Carers UK, says it’s something too many people put off.
She said: “Power of Attorney is a legal document that lets you choose somebody that you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.”
“We tend to assume that our family members will be able to make decisions on our behalf – but without a legal Power of Attorney, that’s just not the case.”
Without it, families can be left in limbo – particularly around money.
“From a finance perspective, you’re a bit stuck,” Claire said, adding that loved ones may only be consulted on health decisions rather than having the authority to act.
“The contrast between those who got ahead of the problem and those who didn’t is night and day… it can make what is already a stressful and traumatic experience so much worse.”
There are two types of Power of Attorney – one covering health and welfare, and another for property and finances – and experts are encouraging people to consider both.
The warning comes as Carers UK launches a national awareness campaign, urging people to start conversations early and put plans in place before a crisis hits - using the Government website.