Professional deputies’ accreditation scheme will raise standards and provide benchmarks
Professional deputies will be able to benchmark their skills and knowledge for the first time with the launch of an accreditation programme designed to drive up standards and give peace of mind to protected parties.
The Professional Deputies Forum (PDF) has launched the voluntary, multi-tiered accreditation programme for its members following extensive collaboration with a range of specialists working in the Court of Protection area.
The programme aims to elevate standards and demonstrate that accredited professional deputies have the expertise and a foundation of knowledge in a range of areas when looking after the property and affairs of vulnerable clients.
Stacey Bryant, Chair of the PDF, said the programme was designed to complement standards already in place, but would give those working in the profession an opportunity to develop their skills and career progression.
“The Professional Deputies Forum is recognised as the leading organisation for deputies, and this accreditation programme plays a vital role in our collective mission to raise standards and provide the highest level of service to vulnerable clients and their families,” said Stacey.
“The programme will raise the bar and standardise knowledge and skills in the profession, boosting confidence in participants and ensuring their knowledge is up to date and relevant.
“Crucially, the programme will also provide valuable guidance and assurance to protected parties and their families who are looking to appoint a professional deputy, giving peace of mind that their best interests will always be taken care of. It’s about securing a future of excellence in our profession.”
The accreditation programme has launched this autumn and is open to all legal members of the PDF.
- Foundation Level – for people working at grades D to C, including paralegals.
- Intermediate Level – for people working at grades C to B.
- Advanced Level – for grade A deputies or trust corporation individuals (launching next year).
Each level includes a variety of modules, from investments, benefits, international law, wills, and annual returns, to managing people with disabilities and brain injuries. Each takes no more than an hour and can be completed flexibly.
The accreditation programme was the idea of Emma Tante and David Wedgwood, partners at Anthony Gold Solicitors, who saw the benefit of a benchmarking scheme after stakeholders raised the issue of variable skillsets in the sector.
Emma carried out a wealth of research and took a proposed plan and syllabus to the PDF. She has since led the project, working with a sub-group at the Forum, including Chief Executive Officer Sam Bossi, Chair Stacey Bryant, and Rebecca Bristow (Partner of Rothley Law).
A range of specialists were also involved to help develop the concept further, including deputies, solicitors, barristers, and other relevant experts, such as financial advisers, case managers and medical professionals.
Discussion also took place with The Office of the Public Guardian and the Official Solicitor to identify areas of development.
“It’s important that we drive up standards for the greater good of the protected party and that we pass on a foundation of knowledge and experience to the next generation of lawyers moving into this growing area of practice,” said Emma.
“We hope to see lots of deputies signing up, and organisations supporting the accreditation scheme and encouraging their staff to participate.
“By fostering an environment of continuous learning and development, we can ensure that professional deputies are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their roles.”
David said what made the work of a deputy so interesting was that it could involve every aspect of a protected party’s life.
He added: “Whilst no one can be an expert in every area of law, certain core principles can be applied to the wide range of issues that arise.
“It’s important that those working in this area have a good understanding of these principles and their application. Through the accreditation scheme, we hope that good practice will be recognised and spread.”
Barrister Alex Ruck Keene KC was one of those who contributed to the module content. He said: “This accreditation scheme is a much needed tool to enable them to discharge that power responsibly, for their benefit, the benefit of organisations and, above all, for the benefit of those with cognitive impairments that they serve.”
For more information, visit https://www.deputiesforum.co.uk/.