Have you recently been diagnosed with a serious illness? What documents should you have in place?
6 January 2026
After such a diagnosis things may seem uncertain and you and your family may be trying to ensure things are in order.
A report in 2024, commissioned by Alzheimer’s Society, shows that around 1 million people in the UK have a form of dementia. This is projected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040.
Estimates suggest that over half of the people diagnoses with dementia do not have a will or a power of attorney in place, highlighting the risk of estate planning, especially for those at risk of cognitive decline.
What is the importance of a will?
A will ensures that when you die all of your assets pass to whom you wish. In particular, people with blended family should consider making a will. For example, a ‘stepchild’, even if you treat them like your child, are not recognised as your child by the law. So it is important to write a will and name them as one of your beneficiaries, if you wish to pass some assets to them.
Importance of Powers of Attorney
If faced with a recent diagnosis, which is going to affect your ability to manage your affairs, then a Power of Attorney is important.
There are 2 types of Power of Attorney:
- Property & Financial – This type of POA can be used as soon as the LPA is registered. Your chosen Attorneys can help you deal with selling or buying property, paying bills and dealing with finances and speak to the bank on your behalf.
- Health and Welfare – This type of POA can only be used once you have lost mental capacity. Your chosen Attorneys can make decisions about your daily routine, medical care and life sustaining.
Why do I need a Power of Attorney?
If your illness worsens and you lack the mental capacity to create a POA, then your loved ones will have to apply for a Court of Protection. This process can be quite lengthy and can take up to 4 to 6 months. This means your loved ones are not able to make decisions for you, until the order is granted.
How can Taylor Bracewell’s Wills, Probate and Trusts team help?
If you wish to make a Power of Attorney, call our Doncaster solicitors on 01302 341414 or our Sheffield solicitors on 0114 272 1884. Alternatively, you can fill out our online enquiry form.
