A LPA is a legal document which confers authority on another or others to make decisions on your behalf.
There is one for finances which can be used whilst you have capacity, at your direction, and continues to be effective if you lose capacity. There is one for health which can only be used if you are unable to make health and welfare decision for yourself.
If you become unable to make decisions regarding your finances or health, an application to the Court is required for someone to be appointed as a Deputy for you. The process is lengthy and expensive.
As a solo parent, LPAs are even more important. It's unlikely you will have joint accounts with anyone, so if you lose capacity, no one will have legal standing to deal with your finances for you, which could affect your child(ren). Equally, it is important to appoint someone to make decisions regarding your health too.
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