Why a Health and Wealth Lasting Power of Attorney matters

None of us likes to think about a time when we may not be able to make our own decisions. But planning ahead can make all the difference, for you, and for the people who care about you.

A Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions about your personal health and care, if you ever lose the ability to do so yourself. It means your wishes can still be followed, even if you’re not able to express them.

What does a Health and Welfare LPA cover?

Your chosen attorney or attorneys will be able to make decisions about:

• where you live and who supports you
• your daily routine, including food, dress and hygiene
• medical treatment and care plans
• life-sustaining treatment
• end-of-life care, including your wishes around organ donation

Unlike a Financial LPA, this type of LPA can only be used when you’re no longer able to make these decisions yourself. But by putting it in place now, you stay in control of who makes those decisions, and how.

Why is it important?

Without a Health and Welfare LPA, even your closest family members won’t have automatic authority to act on your behalf. In a crisis, this can delay treatment or leave loved ones feeling powerless. Social services or doctors may have to make decisions without knowing your preferences.

An LPA removes this uncertainty and ensures your voice is still heard, through someone who knows you well.

What should I do next?

1. Think about your wishes
   Would you prefer to stay at home rather than move into care? Do you have strong views on certain treatments, or religious and cultural preferences you want respected? Thinking about this now gives you a clear basis for your LPA.
2. Talk to those closest to you
   Once you’ve thought it through, have a conversation with your chosen attorney(s). These are not always easy discussions, but they make all the difference later on.
3. Get the right legal advice
   While it’s possible to complete the paperwork yourself, many people find the forms confusing. Mistakes or unclear wording can make your LPA invalid. We recommend seeking legal advice to ensure the document is properly drafted and reflects your wishes clearly.

For further information or advice please contact Jonathan Gallop, Partner and Head of Wills, Trusts and Probate on 01494 781362, or email  enquiries@blasermills.co.uk.