Many people are unaware that if they lose capacity to make decisions, others can only help them make important decisions if they have legal authority to do so. This includes ending their tenancy and rent account if they can no longer stay there.

Chair of the housing and property service, Councillor Glynis Campbell Sinclair, said: “More of our tenants are taking control of their future. They’re making sure that, if their situation changes, they don’t leave their loved ones with difficult drawn-out arrangements or debt challenges. They do this by putting in place power of attorney arrangements.

“We’re raising awareness of the help our tenants can get to set up these arrangements. For example, households on low incomes can do this for free and may also get help with their legal costs. This makes the process much more affordable.”

Highland Council and NHS Highland are backing the Highland Power of Attorney Month campaign to spread the word about how having Power of Attorney in place can help people deal with medical, financial and legal issues when they or their families become unable to do so.

Arlene Johnstone, NHS Highland’s chief officer for health and social care, added: “The mental strain of dealing with debt at any time can be very challenging. When a parent or relative goes into hospital or care, dealing with unpaid rent owed is a long and complicated process. We would urge people to have Power of Attorney in Place before it is needed so that families can focus on their loved ones care and not potential money worries that might have been avoided.”