Friendly Trust

Frequently
Asked Questions

FAQ's

If You Have a Question, You Might Find the Answer Here.

If not, please get in touch — we’re happy to help.

Appointeeship

What is an Appointee?

An Appointee is someone authorised by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or a local authority to manage a person’s benefits when they are unable to do so themselves.

A Corporate Appointee is an organisation — like The Friendly Trust — that manages benefits on behalf of someone who can’t do it themselves and has no suitable family or friends to help.

 

You need to complete a form (BF56) and submit it to the DWP. A visiting officer may meet with the person and the proposed Appointee to confirm the need.

 

An Appointee helps manage benefits, pays bills, and ensures the person’s money is used in their best interests. They also keep financial records and report any changes to the DWP.

 

Yes. Appointeeship can be short-term — for example, after an illness or accident — or long-term, depending on the person’s needs.

Yes. You can resign by giving one month’s written notice. The DWP can also remove an Appointee if needed.

Yes. We have lots of experience in transferring Appointeeships. Please contact us to discuss your situation.

 

It depends. Some people receive the service for free, others are funded by a third party, and some may pay privately. We’ll explain everything clearly before you decide.

 

Court of Protection Deputyship

What is a Deputy?

A Deputy is someone appointed by the Court of Protection to make decisions for a person who lacks the mental capacity to do so themselves.

Someone who can’t manage their finances due to a serious illness, brain injury, dementia, or learning disability.

A Deputy can be a family member, friend, or a professional organisation like The Friendly Trust. Deputies must be over 18.

Only after a full application to the Court of Protection, which decides if it’s in the person’s best interests.

Yes. There’s a £400 application fee, and possibly other costs. Some people may qualify for a fee reduction or exemption.

Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

An LPA is a legal document that lets you choose someone (an Attorney) to manage your finances if you become unable to do so.

Health and Welfare

Property and Financial Affairs
The Friendly Trust supports the second type.

Anyone aged 18 or over who has mental capacity at the time of making the LPA.

They can pay bills, collect benefits, manage bank accounts, and even sell property — always acting in your best interests.

You’ll need to choose your Attorney(s), complete the forms, and register the LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian. You can find the forms and guidance at gov.uk/power-of-attorney. If you need help, we’re here for you.

You’ll need to choose your Attorney(s), complete the forms, and register the LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian. You can find the forms and guidance at gov.uk/power-of-attorney. If you need help, we’re here for you.

Referrals

Please visit our referral page for all the ways you can refer someone to us. If you’re unsure, just get in touch — we’ll guide you through it.

Your Support Helps Us Make a Real Difference.

At The Friendly Trust, we help vulnerable people manage their money, protect their finances, and plan for the future. Every donation helps us reach more people and provide the personalised support they need to live independently and with dignity.

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