The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) is an agency with responsibilities that extend across
England and Wales (separate arrangements exist for Scotland and for Northern Ireland).
The OPG supports the Public Guardian in the registration of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)
and Enduring Powers of Attorney (which were replaced by LPAs, but those in existence may still
be used if they were made and signed before October 2007), as well as the supervision of deputies appointed by the Court of Protection.
The OPG also helps attorneys and deputies to carry out their duties, and protects people who lack
the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves.
The OPG works closely with other organisations to ensure that any allegations of abuse are fully
investigated and acted on.
The OPG also has responsibility for mental capacity policy, and provides guidance to public, legal
and health professionals.
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