Helping ensure autistic people are supported after parents’ deaths

A Hertford firm of solicitors offered advice to families of people with additional needs during the Autism Show in London.

Longmores Solicitors encouraged visitors to ask the difficult questions about the future such as “What do I need to include in my will?” and “How can I support my child after I die?”

Raising a child with autism presents unique challenges and rewards, and one of the most significant concerns for parents is ensuring their child’s long-term well-being.

Charles Fraser, Longmores’ Senior Solicitor and Head of the Older and Vulnerable Client team, knows the reality of raising a child on the autism spectrum and his experience has given him a depth of awareness that is invaluable when talking to families in a similar position.

One of the biggest concerns is securing financial stability for autistic children, who may require lifelong care and support. Many sons and daughters who are autistic depend on financial assistance into adulthood. Ensuring they have resources is paramount and understanding the effects that bequests can have on benefits, for example, is important.

Protecting the futures of autistic children through wills and trusts is a multifaceted process requiring careful planning and consideration. By understanding the challenges and employing tailored solutions like discretionary trusts, special needs trusts, and well-drafted wills, parents can provide for their children’s long-term security and well-being.

Given the complexities involved, seeking advice from solicitors who specialise in special needs planning is crucial. They can help ensure that all legal documents are correctly drafted and that the trust structures are appropriately set up. Regular reviews of these arrangements are also important, as the child’s needs and the legal landscape may change over time.

Through meticulous planning and informed decision-making, parents can achieve peace of mind knowing their autistic children are protected and supported throughout their lives.