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No power of attorney

Kayhedgehog
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My dad had a stroke on the 16th Aug 24.

Following tests they have found that he has cancer of the oesophagus at the junction of the stomach. This has spread to his lungs and kidneys.

He has been given a few weeks or up to 6 months to live.

Due to the stroke. He cannot communicate coherently. A lot of his words are nonsense. 

He has moved into a nursing home where he is deteriorating quickly.

He doesn't have a power of attorney.

We can't get into his phone as it is pin protected. And we need to start getting in touch with people to cancel things like his broadband, dental plans etc.

Does anyone have any advice? The solicitor has said it could take 3 months to get a donor appointed. 

Thank you x

  • Hello Kayhedgehog

    I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's cancer diagnosis following his recent stroke. It's obviously a very difficult time for you all at the moment. 

    You mention in your post that you've already contacted a solicitor to ask for some advice on being able to manage Dad's financial affairs and it sounds as if you've had some advice from them regarding how long it may take to get things in place. You could also speak with your local Citizens Advice to see if they are able to give you any further help and support with your queries. 

    I hope that your Dad is being well cared for at the nursing home during this final stage of his life and that as a family you're able to support each other through the coming weeks and months. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    I’m so sorry to read about your Dad’s condition, which struck a chord as he has the same cancer as I was diagnosed with and my wife’s parents had dementia - her Dad’s compounded by a series of strokes. Her brother managed to gain access to his bank account despite him not having granted power of attorney. This website may be of help … https://www.stroke.org.uk/stroke/support/looking-after-someone-elses-finances#:~:text=To%20do%20this%2C%20the%20account,bank's%20third%20party%20mandate%20form.&text=If%20someone%20is%20unable%20to,of%20attorney%20can%20take%20over.

    Good luck
    Dave

  • In addition to the above advice, if no power of attorney exists, it is possible to apply to the Court of Protection for a decision to be made on a particular matter. However, if there is a continuing need to make decisions on the person's behalf, you can ask the Court of Protection to appoint you as a deputy.

    A deputy is usually a family member or someone who knows the person well. A deputy can make decisions about someone's personal welfare, property and financial affairs.

    If necessary, you can apply to the Court of Protection for an emergency order, which can be made in as little as 24 hours. You might need to do this if an urgent decision needed to be made. You can find more details of how this works and who to contact on the Government's website.

    Best wishes,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

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