STEP calls on families to draw up LPAs as a precaution during Covid-19, as survey shows 73 per cent have seen no increase in LPAs being set up as a result of the pandemic

Tuesday, 26 May 2020
Only 5 per cent of inheritance advisors have experienced a big increase in people setting up Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) during the Covid-19 pandemic,

Only 5 per cent of inheritance advisors have experienced a big increase in people setting up Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to new research completed by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). The figures suggest that some families may be ill-prepared in case the worst should happen; STEP is today calling on families to take sensible precautions at this uncertain time.

A survey of 463 qualified advisors, asking if they had seen an increase in LPAs due to the current crisis, found that 22 per cent had experienced a small increase but 73 per cent were seeing flat or even falling enquiries about LPAs. Worryingly in the current circumstances, 39 per cent of advisors reported that fewer LPAs than normal were being drawn up.

LPAs have a crucial role to play in looking after vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with medical conditions. However, they need to be created with care and understanding by all of those involved.

This pandemic is like no other and it is important to ensure the safety of family, friends, and the wider community. With the situation so unpredictable – and the risk that vulnerable individuals can quickly become incapacitated – it’s important to have an LPA in place to enable a trusted attorney(s) to take decisions regarding their health and welfare and/or finances and property.

STEP is encouraging people to make an LPA as a precaution during this crisis. As per new England and Wales Office of the Public Guardian guidance, you can still do so while observing rules on social distancing, self-isolating and shielding:

  • The signing and witnessing of the LPA can be done via the post or, if you live within walking distance, you could take the LPA to the people who need to sign – whilst keeping at least two metres and washing your hands before and after handling the LPA.
  • Witnessing the donor and attorney’s signatures can be done by a neighbour on the doorstep, over the garden fence or through a closed window.

Emily Deane TEP, Technical Counsel at STEP, said: 'These numbers are surprising and worrying given the current crisis. With the situation looking so unpredictable, we are encouraging those who can set up an LPA to do so. Some people may be worried about social distancing but it is still possible to set up an LPA through your advisor while continuing to observe the official guidelines.

'Families need to plan carefully and collaboratively, and individuals should not underestimate the responsibility bestowed upon the person acting as attorney. Careful consideration and diligent planning are needed to help ensure that they are the right person for the job, have the individual’s best interests at heart and will respect the values they hold, if and when they lose the capacity to make decisions.'

Contact details

For more information, or to request an interview with Emily Deane, please contact:

  • Caroline Merrell, Nick Reading, or Claire Dansie at Citigate Dewe Rogerson: 020 7638 9571.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

About STEP:

STEP is the global professional association for practitioners who specialise in family inheritance and succession planning. STEP works to improve public understanding of the issues families face in this area and promotes education and high professional standards among its members. STEP members help families plan for their futures, from drafting wills to issues surrounding international families, protection of the vulnerable, family businesses and philanthropic giving. Full STEP members, known as TEPs, are internationally recognised as experts in their field, with proven qualifications and experience.