Understanding Lasting Power of Attorney – Information Event
On 6th May, Healthwatch Wirral, in collaboration with Peter Edwards Law, had the pleasure of hosting a free information event around Lasting Power of Attorney (LPAs). It was an opportunity for people to understand more about what LPAs are, why they are important, how to set one up, and explore any other questions they had. Many people only learn about LPAs at a point of crisis, so our aim was to provide clear guidance before people reach that stage.
We would like to thank Peter for delivering such an informative and engaging session, and for sharing his expertise with the community.
Please find the extensive notes and information on this session at the bottom of the page.
Why LPAs are important
During the event, Peter covered that if a person loses capacity before having an LPA in place, then the decisions about their health/finance will be made for them. LPAs allow adults to appoint trusted individuals to make decisions on their behalf, ensuring their wishes are respected even if they cannot express them later.
The two types of LPAs
Peter outlined the two forms of LPA, both of which must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG):
1. Property and Financial Affairs
This can include: managing bank accounts, paying bills, collecting benefits or pensions, or selling property.
This type of LPA can be used as soon as it is registered, with the donor’s permission.
2. Health and Welfare
This can include: daily routines (washing, dressing, eating), medical treatment, moving into a care home, or life‑sustaining treatment.
This LPA can only be used when the person loses capacity.
How to make an LPA
Peter walked attendees through the practical steps of making an LPA.
- Choose your attorney (you can appoint more than one).
- Complete the LPA forms online or on paper.
- Have the forms signed by attorneys, witnesses, and a certificate provider.
- Register the LPA with the OPG (usually takes 8–10 weeks).
- Pay the registration fee (£92 per LPA, or £184 for both types; there may be fee reductions or exemptions based on income and benefits).
- Review your LPA over time, especially if relationships or circumstances change.
Advance Statements
Advance statements allow people to record their wishes and preferences for future care. These can be written down or recorded. They put your views down in writing, and it’s good practice to ensure people have copies of them.
These can include: personal preferences, religious or spiritual beliefs, daily routines, where you would prefer to be cared for, treatments you do or do not want.
Further Resources
Healthwatch Wirral emphasises the importance of checking that any information about Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is accurate, current, and from trusted sources. For further information, the following websites are offered:
Peter Edwards Law: LPA information and videos.
UK Government – The Office of the Public Guardian: Official guidance for LPAs, forms, and registration information.
UK Government – LPA guidance: Step-by-step instructions and legal requirements.
Age UK – LPA Information: Clear guides and factsheets for older people and Carers.
Citizen’s Advice: Managing affairs for someone else.
Wired UK: Wirral-based organisation supporting Carers, who offers monthly wills and trusts advice sessions.