My brother has been sectioned!

[Jade_1706]

I was wondering if there's any help available for me? My brother can't remember his address for his bank card... He lost it an it needs stopping.. I am currently financially keeping him whilst he is in hospital.. It don't look like he will be out any time soon and it's already putting a massive strain on my finances.. I hate to admit it..but it's the truth.. He keeps 'losing' things which I keep replacing for him of course.. Just wanted to know if there was any help available??? Thank you.

[MrsAverage]

Hi Jade
Im not too sure you can do anyhting while he is in hospital, but
Look into getting yourself nominated as his DWP appointee. That way, I think but am no expert, you can have some control over his benefits payments
Then see if he will agree to you having Power of Attorney for his finances, but he does need to have the mental capacity to agree to this and it takes time and cost to register it.

Simplest it to have a joint account set up. Or for him to allow you access to his bank account. He will need to visit the bank to arrange this

If you always replace things he loses he will never learn to keep things safe. I know this is difficult, especially with important documents., but sometimes you need to be tough

Best wishes
MrsA

[bowlingbun]

Sorry, I don't agree with Mrs.A about having a joint account. If you do this, under certain circumstances, you could become liable for his debts!
Definitely contact DWP and become his appointee asap, you should stop giving him anything else, which you have paid for.
Do you know which bank his account was with, HSBC, Lloyds,..? If so, visit the local branch and explain what has happened. They have a duty to protect thir customer's money from fraud..

[Colin_1705]

If he gets any money from DWP then it is likely to be stopped or reduced after 28 days in hospital

[Colin_1705]

Will your brother give you permission to phone up the bank and inform them that his card has been lost?