Hello, I’m new to the FamilyHub and am after some help please on Appointees. I have a relative living in supported housing and we have just been told that the foundation she lives with are no longer going to be appointees for their residents. They’ve recommended an organisation called ‘Money Carer’, or suggested we take on the responsibility ourselves. The reviews I’ve seen online do not fill me with much hope and I’ve been told by a friend that having a Social Worker as the Appointee would be the best bet. Taking on the task of managing my cousin’s finances sounds very daunting and complicated and I would really appreciate some advice from anyone that’s got some experience or knowledge of this please! Thank you
Hello RosieW Welcome to the family hub When my son recieved benefits at the time DLA I had a visit from benefits person who made me an Appointee after filling in a form and signing. An appointee is someone that looks after his benefits and ensures that they are used for his benefit. It is a person “appointed” by the Department of Works and Pensions and the money/benefit is paid to you. It can be paid into a separate account but you may be able to put someone nearer the responsibility of paying his bills etc.I am not sure that a social worker would take this on because in my area “clients” or “service users” do not now have a named social worker and if someone goes on maternity leave or sick then the benefits would not get reicieved by your relative.There is only one named person that can be appointee. Are you sure that Money Carer Foundation can apply to be an appointee for benefits?
Welcome to the family hub @RosieW! This is a good question. I agree with @charlie1 - I haven’t heard of Social Workers (specifically) taking on this role, but the local authority can do it (or they may be out sourcing it to Money Carers?). It is your choice whether you take on this role or not - the local authority cannot say that you ‘have to’. I’m wondering if there are other organisations in your area that would also offer the service that Money Carers would? Try searching ‘Money management for vulnerable adults’ and your location? Let us know how this goes
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