Sandra McDonald

The charity has launched a new ‘Planning Ahead’ campaign, fronted by Sandra McDonald, former Public Guardian for Scotland and chair emeritus of The Dementia Trust.

Solicitor firms across Edinburgh are invited to take part in the campaign pilot, which aims to tackle the misunderstandings that stop people from acting and encourages conversations around power of attorney. The initiative highlights that fewer than one in ten adults in Scotland currently has a registered power of attorney.

Participating firms will pledge to participate in a dedicated POA Month in February 2026, raising awareness among clients and donating 10 per cent of POA income to The Dementia Trust. They will also gain access to bespoke dementia and capacity awareness training, developed and delivered by Ms McDonald alongside dementia expert Professor June Andrews, and which will provide practical guidance on working with clients and families navigating capacity concerns.

Ms McDonald said: “Planning Ahead offers an opportunity for both the legal community and the third sector to demonstrate how collaboration can help ease wider social pressures and provide the vital support families need when planning for the future.

“Power of attorney is too often a conversation when a crisis hits. This campaign is about giving firms the tools, confidence and shared language to start those conversations earlier and make discussions as routine as talking to clients about wills or pensions.”

‘Planning Ahead’ will run initially in Edinburgh, before being rolled out nationally in Scotland. A new online hub provides practical resources and guidance for both legal professionals and families, making it easier to start conversations and access support.

The Dementia Trust is a Scotland-based charity that has spent over 40 years improving the lives of people living with dementia, their carers and the professionals who support them. 

Law firms interested in taking part in POA Month or accessing the Trust’s dementia-awareness resources can contact: admin@dementiatrust.org.