It is vital to ensure you areprotected ... and it has never been
Safertodoso
It is understandable people are concerned about inviting others into their home in this current climate, however, when it comes to arranging essential legal work – this is allowed. Professionals who are writing a Will or creating a Power of Attorney for clients are allowed to be in your home. And, you need not worry about it, as your safety is of utmost importance to them. During the recent home visits that ILAWS have been conducting, estate planners wear masks and disposable gloves as they go through their clients’ essential documents in the comfort of their own home. They have also introduced a number of extra safety measures to ensure their clients’ safety at all times whether handling business over the phone or face-to-face at the ILAWS office or at home.
Tony Marchi, principal at ILAWS Scotland, said: “Having us come to your home is not classed as socialising. We can come to your home as this is classed as essential work – getting a Will or a Power of Attorney arranged is essential.
“We have seen a number of our clients passing away recently, it’s unprecedented. Some have been Covidrelated. We would urge people who have not arranged a Will or Power of Attorney to consider it now because the safety measures are there.
“You should not be putting this off because of Covid, you should be doing this because of Covid.
“Telephone and office appointments are available too, if you are really concerned, but we are only too happy to come and see you. You are arguably safer with us coming to see you, than you are going to the supermarket.”
A Power of Attorney and a Will are two of the most important legal documents you will ever need to write.
A POA gives a trusted family member or friend the power to act on your behalf, when you are no longer able to through mental or physical illness. They can make decisions for you about your treatment and finances. It is worth remembering that a next of kin does not have the same powers.
“Power of Attorney doesn’t mean you are giving power away or not having control over your own life,” says Tony Marchi.
“Power of Attorney can only be exercised with your permission or if you are unable to act for yourself.
“If you and your family are faced with a medical emergency, having a Power of Attorney can be a lifesaving document. If you’re in hospital, no one can make decisions for you if you can’t make them for yourself unless you have a Power of Attorney.
“And, sometimes, doctors won’t administer treatment if there’s any risk to you, even if your spouse or children wish them to do so.”
It can take more than three months for a Power of Attorney application to go through the Scottish Courts, so it is advisable to act now while you are able to, instead of waiting until you need a POA, as it could be too late to register it in time. ILAWS can organise yours for just £240 (including VAT) plus £81 (court registration fee).
Why not organise, or update, your Will at the same time? It’s only £48 for a simple Will from ILAWS and, once arranged, it will give you peace of mind that your wishes – about who receives what item and how much of your finances or estate – will be legally carried out.
We would urge people who have not arranged a Will to consider it
I’ve enjoyed fish since childhood but now think I am allergic to it. Is fish allergy dangerous?
Yes, it is potentially dangerous and you should see your doctor. Fish allergy usually begins in childhood and is likely to be lifelong. However, it can start in adulthood. If you are allergic to one fish you are likely to be allergic to all, but not necessarily to shellfish.
This allergy can vary in severity. You may have a rash or tingling in your mouth. More concerning is swelling of the face, lips and/ or tongue, wheezing and difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. In this instance you may need a special pen for injecting adrenaline. Milder symptoms can be treated with antihistamine. Diagnosis is with blood test or skin-prick test. It is best to avoid fish and watch out for fish in food and cosmetics you would not suspect . Always query ingredients in restaurants and be careful in takeaway eateries – chips may have been fried in the same oil as fish. Under European law all potential allergens need to be listed.
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Claw toe is a deformity where