ABOUT LIVING WILLS

Q What is a living will?

A Living Will is not officially a Will, but it allows people to state a form of treatment that they might like carried out should they become unable to decide for themselves. It is also known as an advanced statement of advanced directive.

Q What is an advanced statement?

A It means that when a person is mentally capable they make arrangements about their future healthcare should they become unable to do this sometime in the future. The only way at the moment you can do this is through an advance directive called a Living Will.

Q Are Living Wills legally enforceable?

A There is no substantive law on the subject but it is likely to become legally binding if your wishes are set out clearly.

You should also write whilst you are mentally competent, and obviously your decision should be made without duress or influence by other people.

Q How do I go about making a Living Will?

A You can of course draft your own Living Will, and the sort of information that would be required is:

• A You can of course draft your own Living Will, and the sort of information that would be required is:
• Your Full name and address
• Name address and telephone number of your GP
• Whether or not you have taken any advice from your GP
• Date
• Signature*

*The signature should be witnessed by at least one witness over the age of 18, who is not related to you or who doesn't stand to benefit under your Will.

Your should set out a clear statement of your wishes.