There has been a big jump in the number of people taking legal steps to ensure that relatives have Lasting Powers of Attorney and to look after their affairs if they become seriously ill, according to research by a leading Carlisle solicitors firm.

The latest official figures show the number of people registeringfor Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) has jumped by 35 percent to nearly one million.

Wragg Mark-Bell took data from the Office of the Public Guardian which shows that from 2021 to 2022 there were 975,557 applications to register, an increase of 283,811 on 2020.

They believe the increase is perhaps another effect of the pandemic which has led to more people reviewing their end of life arrangements.

Wragg Mark-Bell has now taken steps to accommodate this high demand with a streamlined service – Lunchtime Legals with its team hosting 30-minute appointments throughout February.

Those interested are able to make an appointment between 12pm and 2pm, Monday to Friday, with a 30 percent discount to help create an LPA with the guidance and support of their team.

The solicitors’ practice wants to break down those obstacles and misconceptions to make getting an LPA more accessible for people. 

And its solution is quick lunchtime appointments with a discount to encourage more people to make the arrangements.

An LPA is a legal document that allows someone to make decisions for you, or act on your behalf, if you’re no longer able to do so or if you no longer want to make your own decisions.

The initiative is part of a campaign to raise awareness of the importance of getting an LPA and the pitfalls of not having one which can result in difficulties for family members.

Nick Kennon, Senior director at Wragg Mark-Bell, said, “We understand why people sometimes avoid making a Lasting Power of Attorney, whether that be because they don’t understand the process or are put off by the cost.

“As demand for LPAs increases we feel it is important to be able to offer our help navigating what can feel like a difficult process.

“But it is very important if you want someone close to be able to help you in your time of need. So Wragg Mark-Bell are making it as quick, straightforward and value for money as we can. 

“Give us 30 minutes of your lunch hour and we’ll do the rest.”

Many families consider LPAs when someone starts to show signs of a diminished mental capacity. However, at this point, it would be too late to register one.

An LPA for financial decisions can cover things such as: buying and selling property; paying a mortgage; investing money; paying bills; repairs to property.

LPA for health and care decisions can only be used once you have lost mental capacity. An attorney can generally make decisions about things such as: where you should live; your medical care; what you should eat; who you should have contact with; what kind of social activities you should take part in.

Nick Kennon’s views on the importance of LPAs were backed-up by financial expert Lewis Benson, area manager at The Cumberland saying: “Lasting Powers of Attorney make things simple at some of the most difficult times in people’s lives.

“We only ever see LPAs at difficult times, when someone is injured or even suffering from dementia.

“People assume having one is for the elderly but should I have an accident and be unable to make a decision my wife would not be able to access my bank account, cancel direct debits or standing orders or even discuss my account.

“LPAs are a key that can unlock everything in a time of need and having someone help organise it can be invaluable.”

To take advantage of Wragg Mark-Bell’s offer in February you must book a time slot to secure your appointment with Keith White or Lauren Goad in advance using the booking system at https://wmblpa.youcanbook.me/

Choose your time, enter your details, and Wragg Mark-Bell will contact you to confirm your appointment.

Full prices are: 

• One LPA – £350 plus VAT
• Both LPAs (made at the same time) – £450 plus VAT
• Both LPAs for a couple – £550 plus VAT

During February there will be a 30 per cent discount

• One LPA – £245 plus VAT
• Both LPAs – £315 plus VAT
• Both LPAs made for a couple – £385 plus VAT

*Registration fee of £82 will be charged by the Office of the Public Guardian for each LPOA.