Calls for a more customer-friendly approach to setting up LPAs

There have been recent calls for a more customer-friendly approach to setting up, registering, storing and understanding lasting power of attorney (LPA). The Financial Conduct Authority is looking at whether people could apply online to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) to have their family take care of their finances if they lose mental capacity, without the requirement for a paper-and-pen signature. It comes as growing numbers of the ‘sandwich generation’ – those with responsibilities for looking after children and elderly parents – say they have experienced frustration when trying to deal with their loved ones’ affairs.  People can apply to set up a Power of Attorney online, but this process has been criticised for its risk of leaving vulnerable people open to fraud or coercion.

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