Finders International is to hold the first of its popular Deputyship Development Days for 2019 in Manchester on 3 April.
These events are aimed at teams working in local authorities who manage the property and affairs of individuals under deputyship and appointeeship. They also open to other professionals from across all sectors who manage finances and protect the vulnerable, and they are free to attend.
Deputies are appointed by the Court of Protection, and the function works in the same way as appointeeship but offers the protection of the client’s assets, savings or property.
Court of Protection
The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) supervises the work of deputies appointed by the Court of Protection. Deputies are given sealed legal documents that allow them to act for an individual in all aspects of their financial affairs.
David Lockwood, Finders International’s public sector development manager, is delighted to be holding the event in the north west for the first time: “We have held events all over the country, but we have listened to those in the north west who have asked us to hold one here. It is a chance for us to bring the public and private sectors together so each can understand the other’s role.”
He added: “We look forward to discussing various topics; however, we will be focussing on mediation and advocacy looking at how these subjects help those who manage individuals’ affairs.”
Networking opportunities
Past events have been attended by a wide variety of people and organisations—from probate clearance firms, to solicitors, civil servants and public sector officers. Feedback includes comments that deputyship is an unusual and specialist field and therefore meeting up with others doing the same work is helpful. Private firms have found the events useful for networking and referrals. Previous speakers have included representatives of the Court of Protection, who have been able to describe in detail their work and processes.
Productive relationships
Danny Curran, Finders International founder and CEO, said: “We’ve had a long and productive relationship with solicitors and law firms since we began business in 1997, but over the years our involvement with other sectors such as local authorities, healthcare providers, health board and others has increased.
“The care and protection of vulnerable society members is very important, and we hope our events help increase understanding and awareness of the help there is for people working in this crucial area.”
If you would like to attend the event, which takes place at The Studio, 51 Lever Street, Manchester on 3 April from 9am to 3.30pm, you can book your free place here.
