This can be set up by a person, called the donor, to allow another person or persons, called the attorney(s), to look after their financial or personal affairs at a future time, in the event that they lose the mental capacity to do so themselves. The document, once put in place, has no effect unless and until mental capacity is lost. If this occurs, the Enduring Power of Attorney can be activated by the attorneys who can then manage matters on your behalf.
The procedure for setting up an Enduring Power of Attorney has recently changed. Enduring Powers of Attorney which were signed prior to 26 April 2023 are still valid and no action is needed in relation to an existing Enduring Power of Attorney unless you wish to change any of the details. New Enduring Powers of Attorney made after 26 April 2023 must be set up in conjunction with the Decision Support Service and registered with it.