What is an Appointee?
An Appointee is a person or organisation appointed by a DWP or Pension Service to manage the financial affairs of someone who is unable to do so themselves. The duties and responsibilities of an appointee can vary depending on the circumstances, but some common tasks include:
What can an Appointee do?
1. Managing finances: An appointee is responsible for managing the finances of the person they are appointed to represent. This may involve paying bills, managing bank accounts, and ensuring that the person’s financial affairs are in order.
2. Claiming benefits: An appointee is responsible for claiming benefits on behalf of the person they are appointed to represent, such as disability benefits or pensions.
3. Making decisions: An appointee may be responsible for making financial decisions on behalf of the person they are appointed to represent.
4. Reporting: An appointee may be required to report to the DWP or Pension Service that appointed them providing information about the management of the person’s financial affairs.
5. Advocating: An appointee may be required to advocate on behalf of the person they are appointed to represent, ensuring that their rights and interests are protected.
What can an Appointee not do?
1. Access your personal bank account: We will not be able to gain access to your personal bank account.
2. Correspond with utility companies, debt companies or landlords etc on your behalf without your letter of authority.
3. Deal or correspond with any private pension companies.
4. Sell any items or correspond with matters outside of state benefits.
Why would you need our Appointeeship service?
LACK OF CAPACITY
If someone lacks the capacity to manage their own financial affairs, an appointee can be appointed to manage their finances on their behalf.
MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES
People with mental health challenges may struggle to manage their finances, and an appointee can be appointed to manage their affairs on their behalf.
INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
Individuals with disabilities may require support to manage their finances, and an appointee can provide this support.
SENIOR INDIVIDUALS
Senior individuals may require support to manage their finances, particularly if they have cognitive decline or physical limitations.
PROTECTION
An appointee can help protect vulnerable individuals from financial abuse or exploitation by managing their finances on their behalf.
OVERALL
Overall, people use appointees to provide support and protection to vulnerable individuals who may not be able to manage their own financial affairs. It can help ensure that their finances are managed responsibly and that their needs are being met.