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Carers Support

Key Information
Carers Registration
Carer Champion
Benefits Of Registering
Proxy Access
Health & Wellbeing
Social Support
Local Support
Financial Support
Emergency Planning
Training & Education
Legal Matters
Contact & Support
Download Carers Pack
Young Carers Support

Key Information

‘A carer is anyone, including children and adults who looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of their illness, frailty, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction and cannot cope without their support. The care they give is unpaid’

Who Qualifies As A Carer?

You may qualify as a carer if you:

  • Help with personal care, such as dressing or bathing
  • Assist with medication management
  • Provide emotional support or supervision
  • Help with household tasks, shopping, or transportation
  • Manage finances or appointments for the person you care for

You can be a carer even if:

  • You don’t live with the person you care for
  • You’re not the only person providing care
  • You also have a paid job
  • You’re under 18 (young carer)

How We Use This Information

By registering as a carer, you help us to:

  1. Identify you as someone who may need additional support
  2. Offer you priority appointments and flexible scheduling
  3. Provide annual health checks to monitor your well-being
  4. Send you relevant information about carer support services and events
  5. Ensure you’re offered flu vaccinations and other preventive health measures
  6. Connect you with our Social Prescribing Link Worker for additional support
  7. Better understand your needs when providing medical care

Confidentiality Assurance

We understand the importance of privacy in healthcare. Please be assured that:

  • Your information will be kept strictly confidential
  • We will only use your details to support you in your role as a carer
  • Your information will not be shared with third parties without your explicit consent
  • You can update or remove your carer status at any time by contacting the practice

How We Can Help

Carers Registration

Carers play a vital role in supporting people and giving a better quality of life to people who otherwise would really struggle. The work you do is invaluable.  However, it is well known that carers are at an increased risk of developing their own concerns, including physical, emotional / psychological, and financial.

At Manor View Practice we acknowledge the very important work carers do. We want to do what we can to help support you, while you are supporting the person who needs your care.  Please let us know if you are a carer, either by completing the online form below, downloading and returning the form below, or ringing and speaking to one of our care co-ordinators.

We also have helpful information below including helpful contacts and support. Please also download our ‘Carers Pack’ documents.

We particularly recommend that you consider contacting Carers in Hertfordshire (www.carersinherts.org.uk) who can offer you in depth assessment and help.

If you are a carer we would like to hold this information in your medical records.  This will help us provide you with necessary support and have a better understanding of your needs.

By completing this form, you are agreeing that we can retain this information in your medical records.

You may be a carer, even if you are a family member.  As a carer, if you provide regular and substantial care for a person aged over 18 years, you are entitled to have a detailed assessment of your needs.  In addition, support is available from local and community services within Hertfordshire, that you might benefit from.

Download Copy Of Carers Registration Form

Carer Registration Form

I Am A Carer (Your Details)


I Care For (Details Of Person Being Cared For)

What happens to my information?

Personal and medical information about patients registered at this practice are primarily kept electronically, although some is kept in paper form. Some information will be sent to hospital consultants and other health professionals to whom you are referred by your GP in order to provide continued healthcare and obtain treatment for you.

We sometimes use accredited suppliers for our communication with you, for example when we send recall letters for review clinics or medication reviews. All suppliers we use are checked carefully to ensure they comply with strict confidentiality protocols.

To ensure the security of all patient information, all staff that have access to your records are covered by confidentiality clauses in their contracts and the Data Protection Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Our guiding principle is that we hold your records in strict confidence.


Privacy Policy

This form collects your name, date of birth, email, other personal information and medical details. This is to confirm you are registered with the practice, to allow the practice team to contact you and also to update your medical records held by the practice and our partners in the NHS. Please read our Privacy Policy to discover how we protect and manage your submitted data.

What Happens Next?

Once you’ve submitted your Carer Registration Form:

  1. Our team will review your information
  2. We’ll update your medical records to reflect your carer status
  3. You’ll receive a confirmation letter or email
  4. A member of our team may contact you to discuss any immediate support needs
  5. You’ll be invited for an annual health check

Remember, registering as a carer is voluntary, and you can change your status at any time. If you have any questions about carer registration or the support we offer, please don’t hesitate to contact our reception team.

Carer Champion

At Manor View Practice, we recognise that carers play an essential role in our community. Whether you’re supporting a loved one, friend, or neighbour who couldn’t manage without your help, your commitment makes a real difference. To support you in this vital role, we have a dedicated Carer Champion (Kate Durham) within our Social Prescribing team.

What Is A Carer Champion?

Our Carer Champion acts as a key point of contact for carers, working closely with our Care Coordinators to make sure carers receive the information, advice, and support they need.

Our Carer Champion helps to:

  • Identify patients who are carers and ensure their caring role is recorded on their medical record, along with any reasonable adjustments.

  • Provide information on local services offering transport, emotional support, social activities, home help, and financial guidance.

  • Assist with requests for a Carer’s Assessment and the creation of an ‘In Case of Emergency’ plan.

  • Arrange informal Carer Events to help carers connect with each other, the Practice Team, and local organisations.

Many carers don’t recognise themselves as carers, they may see it as simply supporting family or friends. You don’t have to live with the person, provide care for a certain number of hours, or claim Carer’s Allowance to be recognised as one.

Caring can mean supporting an older person, someone with a mental health condition, a child with SEND needs, an individual with a long-term condition, learning disability, neurodiversity, or addiction. Recognising your role as a carer helps us ensure you’re not overlooked and that your own health and wellbeing are supported too.

How to Get in Touch

If you’re a carer, or think you might be, please let our reception team know. Our Carer Champion will be happy to talk with you, help register you as a carer, and connect you with local resources.

Benefits Of Registering As A Carer

At Manor View Practice, we recognise the vital role carers play in our community. By registering as a carer with us, you gain access to a range of services and support designed to help you maintain your own health and well-being while caring for others.

Priority Appointments

  • Fast-track access: We offer priority appointments for carers, ensuring you can see a healthcare professional quickly when needed.
  • Urgent care: In case of emergencies related to your caring role, we strive to accommodate same-day appointments.

Annual Health Checks

  • Comprehensive review: Receive a yearly health assessment to monitor your physical and mental well-being.
  • Preventive care: We’ll ensure you’re up-to-date with vaccinations and screenings appropriate for your age and risk factors.
  • Medication review: If you’re on regular medication, we’ll review it annually to ensure it’s still appropriate.

Flexible Appointment Times

  • Extended hours: Access to early morning or evening appointments to fit around your caring responsibilities.
  • Double appointments: Option for longer consultations when discussing complex health issues or multiple concerns.

Telephone And Video Consultations

  • Remote care: Speak to a healthcare professional without leaving the person you care for.
  • Convenient follow-ups: Receive test results or discuss ongoing treatment plans via phone or video call.
  • Quick advice: Get timely guidance on minor health concerns without visiting the practice.

Carers' Support Groups And Coffee Mornings

  • Peer support: Connect with other carers in similar situations at our regular support group meetings.
  • Information sessions: Attend talks by healthcare professionals and local support services on topics relevant to carers.
  • Social connection: Join our monthly coffee mornings to relax and chat with other carers in an informal setting.

Additional Benefits

  • Flu vaccinations: Priority access to annual flu jabs to protect both you and the person you care for.
  • Carers’ clinics: Access to dedicated clinics focusing on carers’ health issues, including stress management and back care.
  • Information packs: Receive tailored information on specific health conditions relevant to your caring role.
  • Signposting service: Get help navigating local support services, including respite care options and financial advice.
  • Carer’s assessment referral: We can refer you for a carer’s assessment with social services to ensure you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to.
  • Emergency care planning: Assistance in creating an emergency plan for the person you care for, in case you’re suddenly unable to provide care.

How To Access These Benefits

To take advantage of these services, please ensure you’re registered as a carer with our practice. You can do this by:

    1. Completing our Carer Registration Form (available at reception or in this pack)
    2. Informing your GP or nurse during your next appointment
    3. Updating your details online through our patient portal

Remember, your health matters too. By registering as a carer, you’re taking an important step in ensuring you receive the support and care you need to maintain your own well-being while caring for others.

Proxy Access & Information Sharing

As a carer, you may need access to the medical records of the person you care for to help manage their health effectively. Manor View Practice offers Proxy Access to facilitate this process while maintaining patient confidentiality and consent.

What Is Proxy Access?

Proxy Access allows a nominated person (such as a carer) to have online access to a patient’s medical record and GP online services. This can include:

  • Booking or cancelling appointments
  • Ordering repeat prescriptions
  • Viewing medical records, including test results and GP notes

Confidentiality & Consent

Protecting patient confidentiality is paramount in healthcare. Here are key points regarding confidentiality and consent for Proxy Access:

  • Patient consent: The patient must give explicit consent for a carer to have Proxy Access to their records.
  • Capacity assessment: If the patient lacks capacity to consent, a best interest decision will be made by the GP.
  • Limited access: Patients can choose to limit what information is accessible through Proxy Access.
  • Revocation: Consent can be withdrawn at any time by the patient or their GP if concerns arise.
  • Safeguarding: We have measures in place to protect vulnerable patients from potential abuse through Proxy Access.

Setting Up Proxy Access: Step-By-Step Guide

  1. Complete the Proxy Access form: Visit https://manorviewpractice.co.uk/administration-services/register-with-us/register-proxy-access/
  2. Complete the form: Fill out all required information, including:
    • Patient details
    • Carer details
    • Level of access requested
    • Reason for access
  3. Provide identification: Both the patient (if able) and the carer must provide valid photo ID and proof of address.
  4. Submit the form: Return the completed form and ID documents to the practice.
  5. Verification: Our team will verify the information and may contact you for additional details if needed.
  6. GP review: A GP will review the application to ensure it’s appropriate and in the patient’s, best interests.
  7. Regular review: Proxy Access will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains appropriate.

Important Considerations

  • Emergency access: Proxy Access is not for emergencies. Always call 999 in urgent situations.
  • Responsibility: As a proxy, you’re responsible for keeping the login details secure and using the access appropriately.
  • Changes in circumstances: Inform the practice of any changes in your caring role or relationship with the patient.

Additional Information Sharing

Beyond Proxy Access, we can facilitate information sharing in other ways:

  • Consent to share: Patients can give consent for us to discuss their care with you without full Proxy Access.
  • Care plans: We can involve you in creating and updating care plans for the person you care for.
  • Appointments: With patient consent, you can attend appointments to support communication and understanding.

If you have any questions about Proxy Access or information sharing, please don’t hesitate to contact our reception team. We’re here to support you in your vital role as a carer while maintaining the highest standards of patient confidentiality and consent.

Health & Wellbeing For Carers

At Manor View Practice, we recognise that caring for someone can be both rewarding and challenging. Your health and wellbeing are crucial, not only for yourself but also for the person you care for. We’ve compiled a comprehensive set of resources and information to support you in maintaining your physical and mental health.

Mental Health Support For Carers

Caring can take a toll on your mental health. We offer several support options:

  1. GP Consultations: Book an appointment with your GP to discuss any mental health concerns.
  2. Counselling Services: Access to short-term counselling through our practice referral system.
  3. Carers in Hertfordshire Mental Health Support: They offer specialised support groups and one-to-one sessions for carers dealing with stress and anxiety.
  4. Online Resources: Access to free online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) courses through our NHS partnership.

Local Respite Care Services

Taking breaks is essential for your wellbeing. Here are some local respite care options:

  1. Hertfordshire Respite Care: Offers short-term residential care for your loved one, allowing you to take a break.
  2. Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North: Provides in-home respite care services.
  3. Day Centres: Several local day centres offer activities for those you care for, giving you time to yourself.
  4. Sitting Services: Trained volunteers can sit with your loved one for a few hours, allowing you some free time.

To access these services, speak to one of our Social Prescribing Link Worker or contact Carers in Hertfordshire for a full list of local respite options.

Social Support

At Manor View Practice, we’re proud to offer Social Prescribing services to support our carers. Our Social Prescribing Link Workers (SPLWs) are here to help you access non-medical support that can significantly improve your wellbeing and quality of life.

What Is A Social Prescribing Link Worker

An SPLW is a trained professional who works alongside GPs and other healthcare providers to help patients address non-medical issues that may be affecting their health and wellbeing. For carers, SPLWs can offer:

  1. Personalised Support: They take time to listen to your concerns and understand your unique situation as a carer.
  2. Holistic Approach: They look at all aspects of your life, not just your health concerns.
  3. Goal Setting: They help you identify personal goals and work with you to achieve them.
  4. Community Connections: They have extensive knowledge of local services and can connect you with appropriate support.
  5. Ongoing Assistance: They provide follow-up support to ensure you’re benefiting from the services they’ve recommended.

Services Our SPLWs Can Connect You With

Our SPLWs have established relationships with a wide range of local community services. Here are some examples of services they can connect carers with:

  1. Carer Support Groups: Local groups where you can meet other carers and share experiences.
  2. Financial Advice Services: Organisations that can help with benefits applications and financial planning.
  3. Respite Care Options: Services offering short-term care to give you a break.
  4. Educational Courses: Local colleges offering courses on various topics, including caring skills.
  5. Volunteering Opportunities: For carers looking to engage in community activities.
  6. Exercise Classes: Including specialised classes for carers and those with limited mobility.
  7. Arts and Crafts Groups: Creative activities that can provide stress relief and social interaction.
  8. Befriending Services: To combat loneliness and isolation.
  9. Home Adaptation Services: For advice on making homes more accessible.

How To Book An Appointment With An SPLW

Booking an appointment with our Social Prescribing Link Workers is easy:

  1. GP Referral: Your GP can refer you directly to an SPLW during a consultation.
  2. Self-Referral: Call our reception and ask to book an appointment with an SPLW.
  3. Online Booking: Use our online Patient Triage portal to book an SPLW appointment.

What To Expect In Your SPLW Appointment

  • Your first appointment will typically last around 45 minutes.
  • The SPLW will ask about your caring role, your health, and any challenges you’re facing.
  • Together, you’ll develop a personalised plan to address your needs.
  • Follow-up appointments are usually available if needed.

Confidentiality

All conversations with our SPLWs are confidential. They will only share information with your GP or other healthcare providers with your explicit consent.

Remember, Social Prescribing is a free service available to all our registered carers. It’s an opportunity to access support that goes beyond traditional medical care, focusing on your overall wellbeing as a carer. Don’t hesitate to reach out and book an appointment with our SPLW team – they’re here to support you in your vital role as a carer.

Local Support Services

As a carer in the Manor View Practice area, you have access to a range of local support services designed to assist you in your caring role. Here’s a comprehensive list of resources available in our community:

Carers in Hertfordshire is a leading local charity dedicated to supporting unpaid carers across the county.

  • Contact Details:
  • Services Offered:
    • Free advice and information
    • Carers’ support groups
    • Training and learning opportunities
    • Carers’ health and wellbeing events
    • Advocacy support
    • Young carers’ services
    • Local Carers’ Support Groups

Meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

  • Location: Watford Quaker Meeting House, 150 Church Road, Watford
  • Contact: Jane Smith, 01923 123456

Every Wednesday, 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Monthly meetings, last Thursday of each month, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • Location: Hemel Hempstead Library, The Forum, Marlowes
  • Contact: hemelcarers@gmail.com
  • Respite Care Providers

Offers short-term residential care

Provides in-home respite care

Offers various respite options including home-based care

Day centres across Hertfordshire for people with dementia

Day centre for older adults

  • Phone: 01727 856741
  • Address: Catherine Street, St Albans, AL3 5BN

Day opportunities for adults with learning disabilities

  • Address: 1 Silver Court, Watchmead, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 1LT
  • Phone: 0300 345 3446
  • Email: info@ageukherts.org.uk
  • Services: Information and advice, befriending, home help
  • Address: Suite 2, Unit 10, Jubilee House, Townsend Lane, London Colney, AL2 1DU
  • Phone: 01727 866566
  • Email: hertfordshire@alzheimers.org.uk
  • Services: Dementia support, Singing for the Brain groups, Dementia Cafes
  • Address: 11 Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL1 3RR
  • Phone: 01727 865070
  • Email: admin@mindinmidherts.org.uk
  • Services: Mental health support, counselling, wellbeing courses
  • Phone: 020 7378 4999 (National helpline)
  • Email: advice@carersuk.org
  • Services: Advice on benefits, employment rights, local support groups

Remember, these local services are here to support you in your caring role. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for assistance, advice, or simply to connect with other carers in your area. If you need help contacting any of these services or would like more information, please speak to our reception team or our Social Prescribing Link Worker.

Financial Support

Caring for someone can have a significant impact on your finances. As a carer, you may be eligible for various forms of financial support and benefits. This section provides information on available financial assistance and where to get advice.

Carer's Allowance

Carer’s Allowance is the main benefit for carers in the UK.

Eligibility

  • You must spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone
  • The person you care for must receive certain benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance
  • You must earn no more than £132 per week (after deductions)
  • You must be 16 or over and not in full-time education

How To Apply

  • Visit the GOV.UK website: www.gov.uk/carers-allowance
  • Complete the online application form
  • Alternatively, call the Carer’s Allowance Unit on 0800 731 0297 for a paper application

Note: Receiving Carer’s Allowance may affect other benefits you or the person you care for receive. Always check before applying.

Other Benefits For Carers

  1. Carer’s Credit
  2. Universal Credit
  3. Council Tax Reduction
    • You may be eligible for a discount on your council tax
    • Contact Hertfordshire County Council for more information
  4. Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
    • The person you care for might be eligible for these
    • This could increase your household income
  5. Attendance Allowance

Local Organisations Offering Financial Advice

  1. Citizens Advice Hertfordshire
  2. Carers in Hertfordshire Financial Advice Service
  3. Age UK Hertfordshire
    • Offers benefits checks and financial advice for older carers
    • Phone: 0300 345 3446
    • Email: info@ageukherts.org.uk
  4. Hertfordshire County Council Money Advice Unit
  5. Turn2us
    • National charity providing financial support information
    • Benefits calculator available on their website
    • Website: www.turn2us.org.uk

Tips For Managing Finances As A Carer

  1. Get a benefits check to ensure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to
  2. Consider opening a separate bank account for care-related expenses
  3. Keep records of care-related costs for potential tax relief
  4. Look into grants for home adaptations or equipment
  5. Check if you’re eligible for NHS continuing healthcare funding

Remember, your financial situation may change over time, so it’s worth reviewing your entitlements regularly. If you need help understanding or applying for benefits, don’t hesitate to contact one of the local organisations listed above. They can provide personalised advice based on your specific circumstances.

Emergency Planning

As a carer, it’s crucial to have a plan in place for unexpected situations. This section will guide you through creating an emergency care plan, provide a template for emergency contact information, and offer details on local emergency respite services.

Creating An Emergency Plan

An emergency care plan ensures that the person you care for continues to receive support if you’re suddenly unable to provide care. Here’s how to create one:

  1. Identify alternative carers: List family members, friends, or neighbours who could step in to help.
  2. Document care needs: Write down daily care routines, medication schedules, and any specific requirements.
  3. Gather important information: Compile a list of medical conditions, allergies, and healthcare professionals’ contact details.
  4. Prepare a medication list: Include dosages, timings, and any special instructions.
  5. Write down preferences: Note any likes, dislikes, or comfort items for the person you care for.
  6. Include financial information: Provide details on how bills are paid and any benefits received.
  7. Create an emergency kit: Pack essential items like medication, spare clothes, and important documents.
  8. Review and update regularly: Ensure your plan stays current by reviewing it every few months.

Emergency Contact Information Template

Use this template to compile essential emergency contact information:

Download Emergency Contact Information Template

Local Emergency Respite Services

In case of an emergency where you need immediate respite care, the following services are available in our area:

  1. Hertfordshire County Council Emergency Duty Team
    • Provides emergency social care support outside of normal office hours
    • Phone: 0300 123 4043 (after 5pm on weekdays, weekends and bank holidays)
  2. Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North Emergency Respite Service
    • Offers short-notice, temporary care at home
    • Phone: 01462 455578 (24/7 emergency line)
  3. Carers in Hertfordshire Emergency Plan Service
    • Helps carers create and register emergency plans
    • Phone: 01992 58 69 69 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5:30pm)
  4. Age UK Hertfordshire Crisis Support
    • Provides emergency support for older people and their carers
    • Phone: 0300 345 3446 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
  5. Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust Crisis Team
    • For mental health emergencies
    • Phone: 0800 6444 101 (24/7)

Steps To Take In An Emergency

  1. Call 999 if there’s an immediate risk to life or health
  2. Contact your alternative carers as listed in your emergency plan
  3. Reach out to one of the emergency respite services listed above
  4. Inform Manor View Practice of the situation when possible

Remember, having an emergency plan in place can significantly reduce stress and ensure the person you care for receives appropriate support in unexpected situations. Keep your plan in an easily accessible place and inform your alternative carers of its location.

If you need assistance creating your emergency plan or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our Social Prescribing Link Worker or reception team.

Training & Education For Carers

As a carer, acquiring knowledge and skills can significantly enhance your ability to provide care and manage your own well-being. Manor View Practice recognises the importance of education for carers and has compiled information on various training opportunities and resources available in our area.

Local Workshops & Courses

  1. Manual Handling Training
    • Offered by Carers in Hertfordshire
    • Monthly sessions at various locations across Hertfordshire
    • Learn safe techniques for lifting and moving the person you care for
    • Contact: 01992 58 69 69 to book
  2. First Aid for Carers
    • Provided by St John Ambulance in partnership with local carer organisations
    • Quarterly courses held at Watford Community Centre
    • Covers basic life support, wound care, and managing common medical emergencies
    • Book online at: www.sja.org.uk/carers-firstaid
  3. Dementia Care Skills
    • Run by Alzheimer’s Society Hertfordshire
    • Six-week course, one evening per week
    • Topics include understanding dementia, communication strategies, and managing challenging behaviours
    • Email: hertfordshire@alzheimers.org.uk for upcoming dates
  4. Caring with Confidence
    • Offered by Hertfordshire County Council
    • Free 8-week program covering various aspects of caring
    • Includes sessions on stress management, navigating health and social care systems, and self-care
    • Register at: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/carerstraining

Online Resources For Specific Conditions

  1. Carers UK e-Learning Portal
    • Free online courses on various topics
    • Modules on specific conditions like stroke, dementia, and mental health
    • Access with code DGTL9462 at: www.carersdigital.org
  2. Future Learn: Caring for People with Psychosis and Schizophrenia
  3. OpenLearn: Understanding Parkinson’s for Carers
  4. Stroke Association: ‘My Stroke Guide’
    • Online tool with information and support for stroke survivors and carers
    • Includes videos, podcasts, and interactive exercises
    • Register at: www.mystrokeguide.com

Guideposts' Local Group Resources

Guideposts offers specialised support for carers of people with mental health issues and autism in our area:

  1. Monthly Support Group
    • Run by Linda Fellows (lfellows@guideposts.org.uk)
    • Meets every third Wednesday of the month, 7-9 PM at Manor View Practice
    • Provides peer support and guest speakers on relevant topics
  2. Autism Awareness Workshop
    • Quarterly half-day sessions
    • Covers understanding autism, communication strategies, and local support services
    • Email Linda to register for the next available session
  3. Mental Health First Aid for Carers
    • Two-day course offered twice a year
    • Learn to recognise signs of mental health issues and how to provide initial support
    • Limited spaces available, contact Linda for details
  4. Online Resource Library
  5. Carer’s Toolkit
    • Comprehensive guide for new carers of individuals with mental health issues or autism
    • Available in print (collect from Manor View Practice) or as a downloadable PDF

Remember, investing in your knowledge and skills as a carer can make a significant difference in both your life and the life of the person you care for. Many of these courses also offer opportunities to connect with other carers, providing valuable peer support.

If you need help accessing any of these resources or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact our Social Prescribing Link Worker or the reception team at Manor View Practice.

As a carer, it’s important to be aware of certain legal arrangements that can help you support the person you care for more effectively. This section provides information on key legal matters that carers should consider.

Power Of Attorney

Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows someone to make decisions on behalf of another person who is unable to do so themselves.

Types Of Power Of Attorney

  1. Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
    • Health and Welfare LPA: Covers decisions about medical care, living arrangements, and daily routine.
    • Property and Financial Affairs LPA: Covers decisions about money and property management.
  2. Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA)
    • Only covers property and financial decisions.
    • No longer available to make new, but existing ones are still valid.

Key Points

  • Must be set up while the person still has mental capacity.
  • Needs to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian to be valid.
  • Can be temporary or permanent.

For more information and to apply for POA, visit: www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney

Advanced Directives

Also known as Advance Decisions or Living Wills, these are legally binding documents that allow individuals to refuse specific medical treatments in the future if they lose the capacity to make decisions.

Key Points

  • Must be made while the person has mental capacity.
  • Should be in writing, signed, and witnessed.
  • Can be changed or cancelled at any time while the person has capacity.
  • Doctors must follow a valid and applicable advance decision.

What Can Be Included

  • Refusal of life-sustaining treatment
  • Preferences for future care

For guidance on creating an Advanced Directive, consult a solicitor or visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/end-of-life-care/advance-decision-to-refuse-treatment/

Where To Get Legal Advice For Carers

  1. Citizens Advice
    • Free, independent advice on legal matters
    • Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
    • Local office: [Insert local Citizens Advice contact details]
  2. Carers UK Legal Advice
  3. Law Society
    • Find a solicitor specialising in elderly care law
    • Website: solicitors.lawsociety.org.uk
  4. Age UK
  5. Hertfordshire County Council Legal Services
    • Local authority legal advice for carers
    • Phone: [Insert local council legal services number]
    • Website: [Insert local council legal services webpage]
  6. Solicitors for the Elderly
    • Specialists in legal issues affecting older and vulnerable people
    • Website: sfe.legal
  7. Manor View Practice Social Prescribing Link Worker
    • Can provide guidance on accessing local legal support services
    • Contact reception to book an appointment

Remember, it’s crucial to seek professional legal advice when dealing with complex matters such as Power of Attorney or Advanced Directives. These legal arrangements can provide peace of mind and ensure that the wishes of the person you care for are respected if they become unable to make decisions for themselves.

If you need any further information or support in accessing legal advice, please don’t hesitate to contact our practice team.

Please note that all legal advice you may receive is provided independently and is not sourced directly from or connected to Manor View Practice.

Useful Contact Information & Support

Caring for a loved one can be immensely rewarding yet incredibly demanding. The following organisations provide essential support services, advice, and advocacy tailored to the needs of unpaid carers in the UK. Explore these resources dedicated to empowering and uplifting those who selflessly care for others, ensuring they receive the practical help, emotional guidance, and respite they need on their caregiving journey.

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Age UK

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Carers in Hertfordshire

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Carers Trust

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Carers UK

Carers Pack

All of our Carers Support information is available to download in our ‘Carers Pack’ by clicking the button below.

Download the Manor View Practice Carers Pack

Young Carers

Visit our Young Carers Support page for more information about the assistance available to young carers.