Lasting Power of Attorney Explained

24th July 2025

Updated: Thursday 8th January 2026

Thinking about control usually means focusing on everyday choices. What to do with your money, how you look after your health, and who you rely on when things get difficult. The harder question is what happens if you are no longer able to make those decisions yourself. Planning for that possibility is where a Lasting Power of Attorney becomes essential.

How a Lasting Power of Attorney protects your choices

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to choose people you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. This could happen through illness, an accident or conditions such as dementia.

There are two types of LPA in England and Wales, each covering different decisions:

• A Health and Welfare LPA allows your attorneys to make decisions about medical treatment, care, daily routines, and where you live.
• A Property and Financial Affairs LPA allows your attorneys to manage bank accounts, pay bills, deal with pensions, and handle property or investments.

Both types work in the same way. They allow you to decide in advance who acts for you and how those decisions should be made, rather than leaving it to professionals or the courts.

Why making an LPA is about control, not giving it up

Many people worry that creating an LPA means handing over power too early. In reality, the opposite is true. An LPA only takes effect when it is needed, and in the case of financial decisions, often only with your consent while you still have capacity.

By setting up an LPA, you are setting the rules. You can include preferences, give guidance and limit powers if you wish. You remain in charge of your future, even if circumstances change.

Without an LPA, decisions may be made by doctors, social services, or through the Court of Protection. These routes can be slow, costly, and may not reflect what you would have wanted.

How an LPA supports families during difficult times

When capacity is lost without an LPA in place, families often face uncertainty and stress. They may disagree about what should happen or struggle to access bank accounts or make urgent care decisions.

A registered LPA removes that uncertainty. It gives clear legal authority, reduces the risk of conflict and allows loved ones to act quickly and confidently. This can make an enormous difference at emotionally challenging moments.

Families often describe the reassurance of knowing they are acting with permission and clarity, rather than trying to guess what is allowed.

The wider impact of Lasting Power of Attorney planning

LPAs do not just help individuals and families. They also support a more effective and compassionate system overall. When decision makers are clearly identified, professionals can act faster and with greater confidence.

Healthcare teams can focus on treatment rather than legal checks. Banks and care providers know who they can speak to. Most importantly, decisions are more likely to reflect the person’s values, beliefs and wishes.

This person centred approach strengthens trust and reduces unnecessary delays across health, care, and financial services.

Taking control today to protect tomorrow

A Lasting Power of Attorney is not about expecting the worst. It is about being prepared, protecting your voice, and supporting the people who may need to help you one day.

With Power of Attorney Online, setting up an LPA is simple, clear and affordable. You receive guided support, expert checks, and reassurance that everything is done properly.

Planning ahead means staying in control, whatever happens next.