Support for Persons Lacking Mental Capacity Without Appointed Deputies

Dr Haresh Singaraju asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in respect of persons lacking mental capacity with no appointed deputy, including those whose caregiver has died or lost capacity, and beyond the Assisted Deputyship Application Programme (a) how the Ministry proactively identifies such persons before a crisis arises; and (b) what interim support is provided while deputyship is being established.

Answer

1. Community Outreach Teams, funded by the Ministry of Health, conduct regular outreach to increase awareness of mental health and dementia, and screening to identify persons at risk of or suspected to have these conditions. Neighbours, family members, social service and community agencies can also help identify such vulnerable persons.   

2. If anyone encounters individuals lacking mental capacity and with no suitable next-of-kin to be appointed as a Deputy, they may contact Professional Deputies (PD) registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. PDs can apply to the Courts to act on behalf of persons lacking mental capacity, to make key decisions affecting their property and affairs and personal welfare. While deputyship arrangements are being established, the Agency for Integrated Care can connect individuals with care needs to appropriate community care services.  

3. Rather than hoping for Deputyship arrangements to materialise, we encourage everyone to plan ahead to minimise challenges arising from a loss of mental capacity. This includes making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to choose a trusted person to make decisions on their behalf, making an Advanced Care Plan (ACP) so care preferences are properly documented, and discussing these matters with loved ones ahead of time.