The appointment of a personal welfare Deputy, is relatively unusual and only will be made by the Court of Protection in very specific circumstances where complex or controversial decisions have to be made.  A welfare Deputy is not required, for example, to enable day to day decisions about personal care and welfare.

Examples of when a welfare Deputy might be appointed include

• where a series of linked welfare decisions over time is needed

• where the most appropriate way to act in a vulnerable person’s best interests is to have a deputy, who will consult relevant people but have the final authority to take decisions

• where is a history of serious family disputes that could have a detrimental effect on the person’s future care unless a deputy is appointed to make decisions

• medical or ethical decisions need to be taken, such as a decision to withhold life sustaining treatment, or terminate a pregnancy or make a donation for the benefit of another person

We have the specialist experience to advise as to whether an application for a welfare Deputyship is appropriate and can undertake this work on your behalf.  We can also advise generally in relation to other health and welfare matters which may come before the Court.

Please contact us on 0161 871 3680 or email Head of Department Chris Gallagher for a free initial discussion with a specialist solicitor in our team.