Plans for capacity laws in Guernsey

People in Guernsey could soon be able to give loved ones the right to control their affairs if they become mentally incapacitated.

Under plans being put forward by the government, the Capacity Law will ensure rights for those with dementia, learning disabilities or mental disorders are protected.

If the proposals are passed early next year, it would mean people could entrust a relative or friend to make decisions on their behalf if they are mentally unable to do so.

Lasting Powers of Attorney were first introduced in the UK in 2007 under the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

In Jersey, the Capacity and Self Determination Law, came into effect last year, which was the first update to this type of legislation in the island in almost fifty years.