England World Cup winner diagnosed with Dementia

Sir Bobby Charlton, widely considered to be England's greatest ever footballer, has been diagnosed with Dementia.

The sad news was bravely disclosed with the blessing of Sir Bobby's wife, Lady Norma, who expressed hope knowledge of Sir Bobby's condition can help others.

As the population ages, Dementia is becoming a very real problem for more people and their families.

Sir Bobby's diagnosis highlights the importance of dealing with your legal affairs at an early stage.As none of us know what life has in store for us, it is important to plan ahead by putting in place a Lasting Power of Attorney (whilst you have mental capacity to make decision for yourself) in order to ensure that the people you trust are able to make decisions and manage both your Financial Affairs and make important Health and Welfare decisions, if you are unable to do so in the future.

If you do not get around to putting a Lasting Power of Attorney in place then all is not lost, it is possible for a trusted family member to step up and apply to the Court of Protection for a Court Deputyship Order so that they can manage your affairs under the supervision of the Court.

A Will should also be a priority so that your assets can be left to people whom you choose when you die.

Our Diagnosis Dementia Case Study explains the different ways that we can help you and your family.

At Band Hatton Button, we have a wealth of experience and include members of Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE). This means you can have peace of mind that you are dealing with a highly experienced and qualified team who specialise in helping with making Wills, Power of Attorneys, Attorney Support Services, Tax Planning, Administration of Estates, Trusts, Deputyship and Court of Protection related matters.

Band Hatton Button are part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Dementia Action Alliance and our team have taken part in Dementia Friends training.

For individual advice and assistance contact our Wills, Probate and Trusts Team to find out how we can help.

Michelle Gavin TEP is a Partner in and Head of the Wills, Trusts and Probate team at Band Hatton Button LLP.