Power of attorney or guardianship

What is a power of attorney or guardianship

You can consider applying for a power of attorney to act for the person you care for. Or you could be appointed as their guardian.

You may need to do this if you’re caring for a child and they turn 18.

You can consider becoming a power of attorney if they need help with:

• finances
• legal matters
• property management.

You can consider a guardianship if they can’t make their own decisions about health care or living arrangements.

Find out more about legal matters, including the difference between power of attorney and guardianship, on the Carer Gateway website.