Managing someone's affairs

Acting on someone else's behalf

It can be difficult to know where to start if you need to look after a relative's or friend's affairs when they need a lot of support or are unable to manage their own. 

This section explains different ways to navigate the system and how to get support and assistance from service providers. We also introduce different options around planning for the future to enable you to feel prepared to make the right decisions when necessary.

 

Managing someone's affairs animation

Watch the British Sign Language version of this video.

 

What is a Power of Attorney? 

Carers UK adviser, Priya explains what a Power of Attorney is and why it might be
helpful to set one up as soon as possible. Please note, some of the names may differ
depending on where you live.

 

Terms and processes can differ depending on where you live in the UK, so we have provided some nation-specific pages on this topic to help you explore what would apply to your situation in further detail.

In England and Wales

Managing someone’s affairs (England and Wales)

Mental Capacity Explained (England and Wales)

End of life planning

In Scotland

Managing someone’s affairs (Scotland)

Mental Capacity Explained (Scotland)

In Northern Ireland

Managing someone’s affairs (Northern Ireland)

Mental Capacity Explained (Northern Ireland)

Tips from carers

 

Need help to arrange services on behalf of the person(s) you care for?

Based on carers' insights and experiences, our three factsheets share tips from carers on managing health matters, power of attorney, and dealing with services from banks to utility providers. Download using the buttons below.

 

Getting power of attorney

Health matters

Using services

Please note that these factsheets are based on carers' personal experiences and are for general information purposes. Information may also vary depending on your UK nation. For more detailed information on your situation, please email our Helpline at advice@carersuk.org

 

What's the Vulnerability Registration Service?

The Vulnerability Registration Service (VRS) offers support for anyone dealing with challenging circumstances. The service allows you to register your details on a UK database. VRS works with organisations including financial services, utilities and local government to make sure they are aware of your situation.

By registering with VRS, you can flag up to companies that you are a carer and may be acting on someone else’s behalf or that you may be impacted financially or face other challenges resulting from being a carer. You can find out more and register here: the-vrs.com

 

 

Carers' tips sheets

Getting power of attorney

PDF(328.5MB)

Download

Health matters

PDF(401.5MB)

Download

Using Services

PDF(366.9MB)

Download