Receive support for voluntary care work

Sometimes, due to illness or disability, adults are unable to manage their own affairs, either in whole or in part. Under certain conditions, the guardianship court may appoint you as a legal guardian.

You will then provide voluntary support to the person in your care, for example by:

• Dealing with the authorities
• Health matters
• Financial matters
• Housing and accommodation matters

You help the person concerned to manage their own affairs as independently as possible. You should only exercise your power of representation, in consultation with the person in your care, when it is absolutely necessary.

In carrying out your duties, you will receive advice and support from the guardianship court, the relevant guardianship authority or a recognised guardianship association.

They are not responsible for day-to-day care.

If you have no family or personal connection to the person under your care, you must seek advice and support from a recognised guardianship association or the relevant authority. To this end, you must enter into an agreement which must include at least the following:

• compulsory attendance at an induction session on care provision
• compulsory attendance at regular training courses
• the appointment of a designated contact person within the care association
• the willingness of the guardianship association to represent you if you are unable to attend, are ill or are on holiday

If you have a family or personal connection to the person receiving care, entering into such an agreement is voluntary.

At regular intervals, you must report to the guardianship court on the work you have carried out on behalf of the person under your care and on their personal circumstances.