Page 74 • The HERALD • 20th November 2025 v WE’VE BEEN YOUR LOCAL SINCE 1994 v ASK A PROFESSIONAL Losing the ability to make decisions is the stu of nightmares. But it happens to many of us. And quite o en without warning. It may be caused by a serious car crash or a stroke or a whole ra of other nasty things that life throws at us. If you do lose mental capacity, who would you prefer to make decisions on your behalf? Your spouse? Your son or daughter? Or someone from social services? You can choose now by lling in a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), a legal document that appoints one or more people you trust to act on your behalf. It’s useful to note here that attorneys have a legal responsibility to act in your best interests. Without an LPA in place, the Court of Protection will appoint a deputy to handle your nancial a airs and make decisions about your health and care. e deputy may indeed be a family member. Or it may not. e court will decide whatever it believes is in your best interests. Make life easier for your loved ones by appointing someone to manage your a airs if you lose mental capacity. Contact Heritage Will Writing on: 023 8087 9243 or email: info@heritagewillwriting.co.uk What is a Lasting Power of Attorney? by Heritage Will Writing A Special Sergeant praised for his proactive approach leading his team has been named Special of the Year at the 2025 Hampshire Police Federation Awards. Special Sergeant David Mason - who has been part of the Special Constabulary for more than 16 years - has been commended for his highly e ective and thoughtful work managing conduct allegations in the Special Constabulary. As part of his Special Sergeant role in the New Forest, David focuses on accountability, support and long-term improvement within his team. His approach has included developing individualised support plans that have emphasised accountability, while also providing avenues for o cers to learn from mistakes and improve. He has introduced clear, documented performance expectations, regular check-ins with Special Constables, and training sessions to reinforce behavioural expectations. ese initiatives have shown clear, measurable results, including a notable decrease in recurring disciplinary issues and an increase in team morale and cohesion. Hampshire Police Federation Chair Spencer Wragg Sergeant David Mason named Special of the Year at Hampshire Police Federation Awards said: “Specials are an incredibly important part of our Hampshire Police Family. And are of course volunteers. David has shown strong leadership and decision-making to creatively address disciplinary challenges within the Special Constabulary. This has led to improved team dynamics and individual accountability, which is so important for the overall performance of our force. Huge congratulations, David.” Special Sergeant David Mason with Russ Morrison, Lead Special for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Special Constabulary, and Stephen Davenport from sponsor Police Mortgages
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