In response to a House of Lords report on the Mental Capacity Act 2005, the Government has announced a ‘life planning’ day in 2015

The Government has recently published its response to a Select Committee Report on the Mental Capacity Act 2005.  The Committee felt that there is a lack of understanding and, in some cases, awareness of the Act by many people and organisations, including professionals and public bodies.

As part of a campaign to promote awareness of the Act, and in particular Lasting Powers of Attorney (‘LPAs’), there will be a ‘life planning’ day in 2015.  It is intended to make it easier for public and private bodies to check whether a LPA or an Enduring Power of Attorney has been registered, by giving them access to an electronic register.  The life planning day will promote awareness of this.

It is also hoped that the making of LPAs will become as commonplace for most people as taking out a life assurance policy.  At the moment, uptake is low and the Government wants more people to make LPAs. Those who have not made one do not have the peace of mind that, should they lack capacity in the future to make decisions, someone they trust will be able to make decisions on their behalf and in line with their values and beliefs.

For more information on Lasting Powers of Attorney and how they might benefit you, please contact the partner at Hunters having responsibility for your legal matters, or (for new enquiries) please contact a partner in the Private Client team.