Once more, the problems caused by The Court of Protection and the need to have a Lasting Power of Attorney have hit the headlines on both the BBC (radio and TV) and some newspaper recently: 

 http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/moneybox/8284865.stm

 http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1222764/Secret-court-seizes-3-2bn-elderly-mentally-impaired.html

This issue shames Britain once more with how we treat our vulnerable people, so protect yourself and loved ones now by obtaining a Lasting Power of Attorney,  because if YOU don't apply for one - then the authorities might well do. 

There are two types of LPA: Finance and Health & welfare:

 
We would advise having the one for finance as a minimum for people who own property or who may have substantial savings, investments or other assets. This will give your loved ones the power to control your assets for you. Once that LPA is in place then no-one else (ie social services) can obtain one. 

The health and welfare LPA means that your loved ones can make decisions about your care for you; ie how and where your care is taken.

For peace of mind LPA's can only be used if registered nowadays.