Carers, and those they care for, often worry about the future, however, many don’t that the relatively simple step in making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
A LPA is vital and gives the carer the authority to act in the best interests of the person they care for if they lose the capacity to make decisions for themselves.
Not having a LPA in place can delay progressing someone’s care needs and cause added stress and financial burden to an unpaid carer at an already stressful and worrying time.
One carer, speaking about their experience, said: “This [LPA] should be a priority right at the start. Without a lasting power of attorney you cannot do anything. Everyone should be informed about both types of LPA, financial and health, from their 40th birthday. It was too late to get power of attorney by the time diagnosis was given to Dad, which caused problems and financial hardship. We were unable to access his savings account when he needed a ramp to get outside, and had to use a credit card for expenses which, obviously, cost more.”
To make sure unpaid carers in Wrexham can get the help they need, NEWCIS and have joined forces with Celtic Law Ltd, to offer LPA workshops and, in some cases, access to financial support with the associated fees. Check their events page for any upcoming LPA courses or contact NEWCIS for more information at enquiries@newcis.org.uk.
