Members of South Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board (IJB) have highlighted the importance of promoting the information and support available to help people plan ahead for future care, recognising the positive difference this can make.Guardianship Orders provide an important safeguard for individuals who are no longer able to make decisions for themselves, often due to conditions such as dementia or other complex health needs.

Demand for private guardianship orders has increased in South Lanarkshire, with volumes rising by more than 10% since 2021 and remaining close to their highest level. The IJB heard how services continue to respond to this sustained demand, including visiting and supporting individuals subject to guardianship.

At the same time, many families across South Lanarkshire have already taken steps to plan ahead by putting arrangements such as Power of Attorney in place. This allows individuals to choose someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf should their circumstances change, helping to ensure that decisions are made more smoothly and in line with their wishes.

Lesley McDonald, Vice Chair of South Lanarkshire IJB, said: “It is important that individuals and families are aware of the options available to them when planning for the future. While guardianship remains an essential safeguard, we would encourage people to consider Power of Attorney at an earlier stage, where appropriate.

“This creates an opportunity for families to discuss a loved one’s preferences in advance, ensuring their wishes are understood and enables trusted individuals to respond quickly when decisions need to be made.”

Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer for Health and Social Care, said: “We often hear from people and families how important it is to have clarity about who can make decisions and how those decisions will be made, particularly when situations change quickly.

“Taking time to plan ahead can make a real difference, helping to ensure decisions reflect what the person would have wanted and easing some of the pressure on families at a difficult time.”

Further information on planning for future care, including Power of Attorney, is available via NHS inform