Lasting powers of attorney (LPA) forms will be made simpler to complete and cheaper to register, the public guardian Martin John has announced.
The overhaul follows a public consultation on key aspects of the implementation of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Changes will see the forms incorporate previously separate guidance, greater use of plain language and the cost of registration coming down to £120 from the current £150.
Justice minister Bridget Prentice said:
“Helping people plan for an uncertain future when they may lack the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves is very important. Consulting the public has helped us to know where we can to improve services to make it easier for them to make these plans.”
LPAs enable people who are concerned for their mental capacity, or those who want to plan for such a time, to choose a person to look after their personal and financial affairs.
Also, following the consultation:
– A new level of supervision of court appointed deputies will be introduced from 1 April. This will give short-term intervention where needed, especially for lay deputies and when it is not initially clear what level of supervision is needed.
– There will be no increase in fees for the court of protection.
