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Why a Certificate Provider is Required
When creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), the law requires an independent person — called a Certificate Provider — to confirm that:
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The donor understands what an LPA is and the powers it gives.
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The donor has the mental capacity to make the decision.
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The donor is not being pressured, coerced, or unduly influenced.
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Without this confirmation, the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) will not register the LPA.
Using an independent Certificate Provider helps protect the donor’s rights, ensures the LPA is legally valid, and reduces the risk of future disputes or challenges.
Our Certificate Provider Service
At Nellie Supports, we act as independent Certificate Providers for clients creating Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs). Our role is to safeguard the donor and ensure their LPA can be registered without delay.
When acting as Certificate Provider, we:
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Meet with the donor (in person or remotely, where appropriate).
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Confirm they understand the nature and scope of the LPA.
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Ensure they are making the decision freely, without pressure or undue influence.
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Check they have the mental capacity to grant the LPA.
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Complete and sign the Certificate Provider section of the LPA form.
By choosing Nellie Supports, you gain an independent, professional, and court-ready service that reassures families, satisfies solicitors’ duties under the Golden Rule, and ensures the LPA is legally sound.
Who Can Act as a Certificate Provider (and Who Cannot)
Not everyone can act as a Certificate Provider for a Lasting Power of Attorney. The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) sets strict rules to protect donors from abuse or undue influence.
Who can act as a Certificate Provider
A Certificate Provider must be someone who either:
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Has known the donor personally for at least two years (for example, a long-standing friend or neighbour), or
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Is a professional with relevant expertise, such as an independent social worker, solicitor, doctor, or other qualified professional.
Who cannot act as a Certificate Provider
To ensure independence, the following people are not permitted:
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Attorneys appointed in the LPA
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Family members (spouse, partner, child, parent, sibling, grandchild)
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Business partners or employees of the donor
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Owners, managers, or employees of a care home where the donor lives
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Anyone directly involved in the registration of the LPA
By using Nellie Supports, you gain an independent professional Certificate Provider who meets all OPG requirements, reducing the risk of rejection or challenge
Why Choose Nellie Supports as Your Certificate Provider
Choosing the right Certificate Provider is essential to ensure your LPA is legally valid and free from future disputes. By appointing Nellie Supports, you gain:
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Professional Independence – we are impartial and not connected to your attorneys or family.
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Expertise in Capacity & Social Work – our multidisciplinary team includes independent social workers and other registered professionals experienced in safeguarding donors.
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Compliance with OPG Standards – all confirmations are completed in line with Office of the Public Guardian requirements.
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Convenience & Nationwide Coverage – we provide appointments at home, in care settings, or remotely across England & Wales.
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Peace of Mind – our involvement reassures families and solicitors that the donor is making their decision freely and with understanding.
By using an independent professional rather than a friend or neighbour, you reduce the risk of your LPA being challenged — protecting the donor’s wishes and ensuring smooth registration.
Our Process – Step by Step
Initial enquiry & triage
Contact us by phone, email, or our website form. We’ll confirm your needs, check that there are no concerns about your mental capacity, and provide a clear written quotation (including VAT and travel if applicable).
Home Visit Appointment
A suitably qualified and experienced professional will visit you at home (or another comfortable location) to discuss your LPA. We explain the document in clear, simple terms and make sure you understand the decision you’re making and its consequences.
Acting as Certificate Provider
We complete the Certificate Provider section of your LPA, confirming your understanding, that you are acting voluntarily, and that no undue influence is present. If needed, we can also witness your signature at no extra cost.
Short Report for OPG Queries
As an added safeguard, we provide a short written report answering the most common questions the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) may ask if they query your LPA, helping to protect it from delays or rejection.
Protecting LPAs from Challenge:
Articles & Insights
Explore our articles on LPA capacity assessments, with practical guidance, common challenges, and expert insights to support families, solicitors, and deputies navigating the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
