A GROUP of local organisations are joining forces to promote the uptake of power of attorney in clydebank this week.

On National Carers Day on Friday, November 30, representatives from several groups will be running a campaign stall at the Clyde Shopping Centre to push the issue.

Between 9.15am and 12pm, Joe McCormack, chief executive of the West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau, and Kim McNab, service manager at Carers of West Dunbartonshire, will be on hand to explain the importance of power of attorney.

Members of other organisations will also be available on the same day between 10am and 12pm in Alexandria, Clydebank, and Dumbarton Health Centres.

Representatives from Macmillan Cancer Support, the council’s older people and sensory impairment team, and Alzheimers Scotland will be offering advice on how to apply for power of attorney.

Mr McCormack said: “The theme this year is ‘planning for the future’.

“Many people have wills for after they die, but what about the present day?

“If you were to be suddenly hospitalised in an emergency, power of attorney would let your family members make decisions about your money and treatment.

“Power of attorney can be expensive. Most law firms charge £300-£450 to go through the forms with you. Citizens Advice Bureau can assist you for free.

“Don’t wait until someone is ill or old to have this conversation.

“Protect yourself and your family, and do it now.”