Why You Should Set Up a Lasting Power of Attorney Now — Not Later

Most people wouldn’t dream of driving without insurance… yet when it comes to safeguarding our finances and personal welfare if something unexpected happens, many leave it to chance. That’s where a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) comes in — and the best time to set one up is now, not when it’s too late.

What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

An LPA is a legal document that lets you appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you can’t — whether that’s due to illness, injury, or loss of mental capacity.

There are two main types:

• Property & Financial Affairs LPA – Covers managing bank accounts, paying bills, collecting pensions, or even selling your home.
• Health & Welfare LPA – Covers decisions about your medical treatment, care arrangements, and even life-sustaining treatment.

You can choose to have one or both, depending on your needs.

It’s a common misconception that LPAs are only for people in care homes or facing serious illness. In reality, accidents, strokes, dementia, or other life-changing events can happen to anyone, at any age.

Without an LPA, your loved ones have no automatic right to step in. They may have to apply to the Court of Protection — a process that can take months, cost thousands, and cause huge emotional strain. And here’s the kicker: by the time you need one, you’ll almost certainly be unable to set it up yourself.

Without a Financial LPA, even your spouse or children might not be able to access your bank accounts — sometimes not even joint accounts. Accounts can be frozen, leaving bills unpaid and care costs mounting.

A Financial LPA gives your chosen people the legal authority to manage your money, protect your assets, and keep life running smoothly.

What would you want to happen if you couldn’t speak for yourself?

With a Health & Welfare LPA, you choose who makes those calls — whether it’s a partner, child, or trusted friend. They’ll ensure your wishes are respected, from treatment decisions to where you live and receive care. Without it, these decisions could be made by doctors or social services, who might not know what you’d want.

Why You Should Do It Now

The simple answer: once you lose mental capacity, it’s too late. The process then becomes a drawn-out, expensive legal matter. Think of it like wearing a seatbelt — you don’t wait until the crash to put it on.

Setting up an LPA now gives you peace of mind and saves your family from unnecessary heartache and red tape.

Creating an LPA isn’t about being pessimistic. It’s about being practical and prepared. It’s one of the most caring steps you can take for your loved ones — giving them clarity, control, and confidence if the worst happens.

If you’re ready to protect your future, I offer friendly, jargon-free advice over a cuppa (in-person or online). No pressure, just honest help so you can make the right choice.

📞 01823 211999 

Let’s get it sorted — before you ever need it.