Easy read
Your court case: an easy read guide
This page is for you. It uses simple words. It is about the Court of Protection and the people who can help you.
This page is easy read.
You can read it on your own. You can also read it with someone you trust. You can ask them to read it out loud to you.
This is not legal advice. It is here to help you understand what is happening.
What is happening?
What is the Court of Protection?
It is a special court. It helps when people are not sure if someone can make a big decision on their own.
Why is my name in it?
Someone has asked the court about a decision in your life. It could be about where you live, your money, or your health.
Do people have to listen to me?
Yes. The judge must hear what you want. Your wishes and feelings are very important.
Can someone help me speak?
Yes. You can have an advocate. An advocate is a person whose job is to help you say what you want. It is free.
Do I have to go to court?
Not always. You can go, or join by video or phone, or someone can tell the judge what you think. You can ask for a break at any time.
What if I am worried?
That is okay. Lots of people feel worried. Tell someone you trust. You can ask for things in easy read or in big print.
Your rights
These are things you are allowed to do. Nobody can take them away.
- You can ask questions. There are no silly questions.
- You can say no to something and tell people why.
- You can ask for information in easy read, big print, audio or your own language.
- You can bring a person you trust with you.
- You can ask for a quiet room, a break, or less bright lights.
- You can change your mind.
- You can complain if someone is not kind or not fair.
Where you can get support
These places are free. You can ring them or look at their website.
An advocate (IMCA or IMHA)
A free person who helps you say what you want.
Ask your social worker, nurse or the court to get you an advocate. Or ask a family member to ask for you.
Open websiteMencap Learning Disability Helpline
Free advice for people with a learning disability and their families.
Call 0808 808 1111 (England). It is free to call.
Open websiteNational Autistic Society
Help and information for autistic people.
Use the online help page or the community forum.
Open websiteSamaritans
If you feel very sad or upset, they will listen. Day or night.
Call 116 123. It is free.
Open websitePOhWER advocacy
Advocacy in lots of places in England.
Call 0300 456 2370 or use the website.
Open websiteVoiceAbility advocacy
Advocacy for people using health and care services.
Call 0300 303 1660 or use the website.
Open websiteCourt of Protection help line
The court office. They cannot give advice, but they can tell you about your case.
Call 0300 456 4600.
Open websiteCitizens Advice
Free help with money, benefits, housing and forms.
Call 0800 144 8848 (England) or 0800 702 2020 (Wales), or go to a local office.
Open websiteAutizma
Our team. We are families who have been to this court too.
Visit our website to say hello.
Open websiteOn the day of court
- You can bring a drink and a snack.
- You can bring a fidget toy, ear defenders or headphones.
- There may be a security check at the door, like at the airport.
- You may have to wait. Bring something to do.
- The judge is in charge. You can call them Judge.
- You can ask to see the room before the hearing starts.
If you feel unsafe or very upset
Tell someone you trust straight away. You can call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time, day or night. If you are in danger, call 999.
You can print this page and take it with you. Nothing you do on this app is sent anywhere — it stays on your own phone or computer.