Plans to improve protection for vulnerable residents

Government is looking at ways to improve protection for vulnerable Manx residents.

It's launched a public consultation on proposals to enhance protection for those unable to make decisions about their health, finances and welfare.

Officials say the feedback people give will help shape the government's emerging capacity policy, which will be brought forward in a draft bill later this year.

Capacity laws give rights to people who cannot make decisions for themselves and provide a legal framework for decision-making on behalf of those who lack capacity to do so.

Health and Social Care Minister, David Ashford MHK, says: "Capacity issues could affect ourselves or our loved ones at any time, so it is vital we have a modern legal framework to protect vulnerable people when they cannot make decisions for themselves, and which allows for others to act their behalf.

"This is a genuine opportunity for people with an interest in this area to share their views with us, and help shape policy for the long term."

A key proposal is the creation of a new Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) which will allow one or more people to help an individual make decisions about their health and welfare, or make decisions on their behalf.

The extended scope of the new LPA will mean decisions about medical care or moving to a care home can be made on behalf of another person when this is thought to be in their best interests.

Currently, the court can make decisions relating to property and financial affairs for a person who lacks capacity, but who has not appointed anyone to make decisions for them. 

It is proposed to extend the power of the court to include health and welfare decisions.

Those interested in putting their views on the matter forward can get involved by visiting the government's online consultation hub before the deadline on Friday, October 2.