Families encouraged to arrange Power of Attorney

Families across the Western Isles are being encouraged to arrange Power of Attorney (PoA) on behalf of their loved ones.

Health and Social Care Partnerships (HSCPs) across Scotland are making the appeal to coincide with national PoA day today (Wednesday 25 November 2020).

In the event of an illness or accident, PoA is a legal document allowing a nominated person to act or make decisions on a family member's behalf.

Information, signposting people to the national PoA website (https://mypowerofattorney.org.uk/), and a series of social media posts are set to mark the awareness day.

Gordon Jamieson, NHS Western Isles Chief Executive, has voiced support of the nationwide campaign – and urged people to think ahead.

Gordon said, “Nobody wants to consider a situation where they cannot make decisions for themselves, and we all hope that the time will never come.

“For most people this is true. However, for many, a life-changing event can occur. It could be an accident, a head injury, a stroke or an ongoing progressive illness, which causes them to lose capacity to look after their own affairs.

“National Power of Attorney day is bringing this issue into sharp focus. This campaign is about giving people the power to make decisions that will protect them, their family and those they care about should they ever lose capacity to make decisions for themselves.”

The national campaign, which has included a range of radio and television adverts, also tackles myths, including the misconception that if a person loses capacity they can rely on members of their family act on their behalf.  Unfortunately, unless an individual PoA has been arranged, this is not the case.

If a person has not granted powers in advance, and the person loses the capacity to make their own decisions, then the courts have to appoint someone to be their Guardian. There are mechanisms by which family members can apply to be granted these powers after someone has lost capacity, but can be a long and expensive process and requires a court hearing.

Gordon added, “Every year thousands of people across Scotland lose capacity. The only way you can plan for your future is to appoint someone with Power of Attorney. If you are in hospital or a care environment or even your own home, no one can act for you – pay bills, manage your welfare or make key decisions unless you have made your plan.

“Think and act now: If ill health or an accident means you can’t make decisions for yourself, who do you want to make them for you?”

Anyone interested in finding out more about Power of Attorney should consult their lawyer or visit https://mypowerofattorney.org.uk/ Some people may be eligible for a free service.