What are the responsibilities of a deputy?

After the court appoints a deputy, they must fulfil a range of responsibilities. Deputies must do this to ensure they are acting in a person’s best interest. These responsibilities include:

1. Managing Finances – The deputy is responsible for managing an individual’s finances, which includes paying bills, managing bank accounts, investing funds and ensuring that the person’s affairs are in order.
   
2. Making Decisions – The deputy must make decisions on a person’s behalf in relation to their finances and property. They must consider the individual’s wishes, beliefs and values in doing so. Furthermore, deputies must act in the person’s best interest and ensure that any decisions are made in line with the Mental Capacity Act (2005).
   
3. Keeping Records – The deputy must keep accurate and up-to-date records of all financial transactions. This includes receipts, invoices, bank statements, and other financial records.
   
4. Reporting to the Office of The Public Guardian (OPG) – The deputy must submit an annual financial report to the OPG. This should provide details of all transactions and decisions made on the individual’s behalf. A professional must review the report and ensure they resolve any emerging concerns.
   
5. Consulting With Others – The deputy should consult the person’s family, friends and carers when making decisions. The opinions of these parties can help the deputy make decisions that reflect the person’s wishes and preferences.
   
6. Seeking Professional Advice – The deputy should seek professional advice when needed to ensure their duties are being fulfilled effectively. This may be anyone from a solicitor to an accountant.

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Appointeeship, Deputyship, Power of Attorney, Money Management, Families, Welfare Benefits