Who can become an appointee?

The minimum age requirement for an appointee is 18. This role can be fulfilled by any relevant party that will act with a vulnerable individual’s best interests at heart. These parties can be anyone from a family member to an organisation pre-approved by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

However, the DWP may sometimes choose to deny an application despite no presenting issues. More often than not, this is due to a conflict of interest. Local authorities and care providers are more susceptible to this, by attempting to carry out contradictory duties.

For example, although care providers may seem a suitable option due to the presence of a trusting relationship, they are also responsible for delivering the highest possible level of care. This can be a potential conflict when trying to manage a limited budget.

These arrangements are being increasingly discouraged due to them not reflecting best practice. Nowadays, many councils and care providers are instead choosing to partner with organisations (such as Money Carer) who can provide impartial appointeeship services for those who need them.

For further information on becoming an appointee, please download our appointeeship guide.

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Appointeeship, Deputyship, Power of Attorney, Money Management, Carer Cards