Next of kin?

JaneRN

Sorry to hear of your situation Ames, and I take it although mum had just been diagnosed with lung cancer the prognosis is not good? Your mum sounds like she is fully aware of what's happening and may well have strong views on what treatment / interventions she would and wouldn't want. In the event of her being in a position of not being able to make these wishes known she could make out an advanced mediacl directive - link here
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Death/Preparation/DG_10029429

This would take a lot of pressure off you mum and you as she gets more frail, her hospital doctors and the GP should have copies so all concerned are in no doubt of her wishes. Incidentally the term "Next Of Kin" is a misnomer, it is whoever your mum says it is - it doesn't even need to be a family member.
Take care
Jane

LondonDiva

A power of attorney can be relatively straightforward & simple to do yourself and costs £120 each - one for financial matters and another for health. If your mother's gross annual income is less than £16,500 she may qualify for a fee exemption or remission

http://www.publicguardian.gov.uk/forms/Making-an-LPA.htm

Mojisola

JaneRN wrote: »

Incidentally the term "Next Of Kin" is a misnomer, it is whoever your mum says it is - it doesn't even need to be a family member.

It is for medical matters but not for legal reasons such as inheritance.

JaneRN

Mojisola wrote: »

It is for medical matters but not for legal reasons such as inheritance.

If you die without a will, but I didn't think that was the issue here.

Mojisola

JaneRN wrote: »

If you die without a will, but I didn't think that was the issue here.

No, I know but people may read this thread and assume that the next-of-kin can be anyone you say in any circumstances. Just trying to clarify the point so that someone doesn't make a huge mistake in a different situation.