I don’t feel like an authority on this topic in any way. However, if you have a child who cannot manage all aspects of their life independently after the age of 18, you will need to apply for deputyship. I don’t mean a lazy teenager kind of thing, but Jude-like.
This means liaising with the Office of Public Guardian.
It’s not an easy application, and of course you need to pay for it. Imagine that, paying for the honour of looking after your own children’s finances and healthcare! You will also have to pay annual fees and face the legal duty of submitting annual reports.
It’s pretty daunting to be honest.
There’s two separate applications. One for Finances and Property and a second for health and welfare. Each cost around £420. No joke. You can add on a little more for court fees. There are also a few other bits and pieces you need to pay for.
You need to submit the seven or so documents. You also need to receive statements from three people known to the “client”. After paying for the application, it sits in court for at least four months. You will then receive a letter confirming that the court agrees to your deputy status. And the prize is…a tonne of responsibilities that you’re legally bound to achieve, and regular inspections, checks, and deadlines to submit annual statements and reports.
I get it. I do. They need to check you aren’t pissing someone else’s money up the wall. But in the case of your own severely disabled son, the terminology is a little cold. During my first phone call assessment, I asked them to stop referring to Jude as my client. He’s my son! She did, and all was well.
Anyway, I still don’t understand everything about it but will share any nuggets of information I find out.
If you feel you will need to submit an application I strongly advise doing so before your young person turns 18. You may need to make financial decisions for them, sign supported living documents, etc. and none of this is possible if your child is now legally an adult.
Be sure to have a stiff drink before wading through the government treacle-like terminology.
Documents you may find useful:
Office of Public Guardian page on deputyship requirements.
Government financial affairs and property application form.
Scope’s useful document on becoming a deputy.
Please send me a message with comments, thoughts, or questions. Also, share any hilarious mishaps. If we don’t laugh through this process, we’ll definitely be crying. Or if you fancy having a discussion on TikTok, please follow me via the video below.
For something slightly lighter, have a read of the article on moving into adult services from a few weeks ago. Would love to hear your pearls of wisdom x
