Unlike most stories here, this one is about a couple who acted early. John and Pat were in their late sixties, healthy and enjoying retirement when a friend's experience with care fees made them think.
What they did
They spoke to a specialist about their wills, how their home was owned and powers of attorney. It took a couple of meetings and wasn't expensive. They didn't give anything away or try to hide anything from the council. They simply set things up properly while they both could.
What happened later
Twelve years later, John died. A few years after that, Pat developed dementia and needed residential care.
Because of the planning they had done together, John's share of the home was protected for their children rather than passing outright to Pat. Their son already had power of attorney, so he could deal with everything straight away.
The difference it made
Pat still paid for her care from her own assets, as she was expected to. But part of the family home was preserved for the next generation, and there was no court application, no delay and no guesswork at a very difficult time.
Is now the time to plan? The best time is while everyone is well. Speak to a specialist.
Talk to a specialist
Tell us a little about your situation and a specialist will call you back, usually within one working day. No obligation, and we know these conversations can be difficult.