Planning for the future: when I am no longer here to care

Step by step

1. Write a letter of wishes (an emergency and future-care plan)

   Write down everything another person would need to know to care for your relative: their routines, likes and dislikes, how they communicate, medical needs, and the people and services involved. This is sometimes called a letter of wishes or a 'this is my life' plan. Ask Northamptonshire Carers about crisis planning and emergency support to help put this in place.

2. Make a will and consider a discretionary trust

   If money or property is left directly to a disabled adult, it can affect their means-tested benefits and social care funding. A will that leaves their share to a discretionary trust can protect this. Mencap's free Wills and Trusts service guides parents and carers of people with a learning disability and can point you to STEP-qualified solicitors (email willsandtrusts@mencap.org.uk, phone 0207 696 6925). Mencap gives guidance only and does not write the will.

3. Write a letter of wishes for your trustees

   Alongside the trust, write a separate letter of wishes telling your trustees how you would like the money used for your relative, and your hopes for their life. It is advisable to have at least two trustees. This letter is guidance, not a binding instruction, so it can stay flexible as circumstances change.

4. Sort out who can manage their benefits (appointeeship)

   If your relative cannot manage their own benefits, someone can apply to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to become their 'appointee' and receive and manage benefits on their behalf. Only one appointee can act at a time. Start by contacting DWP; they will arrange a visit to decide whether an appointee is needed and complete form BF56, confirming appointment with form BF57.

5. Consider deputyship or a power of attorney for bigger decisions

   For decisions beyond benefits, for example larger finances, property, or health and care, and where the person lacks mental capacity to appoint an attorney themselves, you can apply to the Court of Protection to become a 'deputy' (property and financial affairs, or personal welfare). Where the person still has capacity, a Lasting Power of Attorney may be simpler. Deputies must send annual reports to the Office of the Public Guardian.

6. Build a circle of support and plan any move to supported living

   Think about who else can be involved for the long term: family, friends, trustees and services who form a 'circle of support' around your relative. If they may move to supported living or their own tenancy, raise this early at their Care Act needs assessment and, if they are a young person moving into adult services, ask about transition planning so the change is gradual and well supported.