Advance Decision / Living Will
A legal document refusing specific medical treatments in advance, for when you can't communicate. Different from LPA but works alongside it.
An advance decision (formerly called a living will) lets you refuse specific medical treatments in advance, for situations when you can no longer communicate your wishes.
What It Can Cover
- Refusing life-sustaining treatment
- Refusing specific treatments (blood transfusions, ventilation, etc.)
- Specifying conditions when refusals apply
What It Cannot Do
- Request specific treatments (doctors decide what's appropriate)
- Request assisted dying or euthanasia (illegal in UK)
- Make financial decisions
- Refuse basic care (food, water, pain relief, hygiene)
Requirements for Validity
- Made when you're 18+ and have capacity
- Specifies the treatments you refuse
- If refusing life-sustaining treatment: must be written, signed, and witnessed
- States it applies even if life is at risk
- Not overridden by a later LPA
Advance Decision vs LPA
An advance decision makes the decision yourself, in advance. A Health & Welfare LPA lets your attorney make decisions at the time. They can work together.
Common questions
Is an advance decision legally binding?
Yes, if valid. Doctors must follow it. However, they may override it if there's doubt about validity or circumstances.
Can I have both an advance decision and LPA?
Yes. The advance decision covers treatments you've specifically refused. The LPA covers other health decisions you haven't pre-decided.
How do I make sure doctors know about my advance decision?
Give copies to your GP, family, and attorneys. Consider carrying a card noting it exists. Register with advance decision databases.
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