You may be caring for someone who has lost the ability to communicate or make decisions for themselves.

This may be due to illness, disability or injury. If the person you are caring for hasn’t yet registered a Power of Attorney, you may choose to apply to the Court of Protection to become a ‘Deputy’. Being a ‘Deputy’ gives you the authority to make decisions on behalf of the person you are caring for.

There are two types of Deputy and you can apply to be either or both.

Personal Welfare

This gives you the power to make decisions related to the welfare of the person you care for. This can include things like whether they should be cared for in a care home or hospice and what medical treatment they receive.

The Court of Protection usually only appoint this type of deputy in specific circumstances, such as if the family disagree about the person’s care.

Property and Financial Affairs

This gives you the power to make decisions about the financial affairs of the person you care for. This can include things like buying and selling a house, managing their bank account or arranging their tax affairs.

Deputies must always make decisions that are in the best interests of the person they are supporting, and involve them in the decision-making process where possible.

There are strict rules that Deputies must follow, as well as annual reports that need to be submitted, you can read more about these requirements here

Before applying to become a Deputy, it is important to consider the rules and requirements of this role, as well as the ongoing Court of Protection fees.

In some situations, the court will appoint a ‘Panel Deputy’, who does this work professionally, this could be a solicitor.

3 June 2025   —   10:30 – 12:00

Information Session on Planning for the Future

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