Families across Fife 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 on Wednesday 25 November 2020.
Every year thousands of people across Scotland lose capacity to make decisions for themselves.
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 this is particularly important but even whilst living in your own home this is something to think about now and act on soon. It is worth remembering that no one can act for you – pay bills, manage your welfare or make key decisions unless you have made your plan. In the event of an illness or accident, Power of Attorney is a legal document allowing a nominated person to act or make decisions on a your behalf.
National Power of Attorney day is about bringing this issue into sharp focus. Nobody wants to consider a situation where they cannot make decisions for themselves, and we all hope that the time will never come. It is prudent however to think about this whilst you still can and to make arrangement to avoid your family members having to have power of attorney granted once you have lost capacity, a process that can be both difficult and expensive.
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.
