🌿 What is an Advance Care Plan (ACP)?
By The Primary Health Awareness Trust | Supporting dignity and choice at every stage
Understanding Advance Care Planning
An Advance Care Plan (ACP) is a written or verbal statement of your preferences for future care. It helps healthcare professionals, family members, and carers understand what matters most to you—especially if you ever become too unwell to speak for yourself.
ACPs are not legally binding, but they are a powerful way to ensure your values, wishes, beliefs, and priorities are honoured.
What Can You Include in an ACP?
Your plan can include:
- 🏡 Where you would prefer to be cared for (e.g. at home, in a hospice, etc.)
- 💬 The types of treatment you would or wouldn’t want (e.g. CPR, hospital admissions)
- 🧘♀️ Things that bring you comfort—music, rituals, faith, routines
- 👨👩👧 Who should be consulted if decisions need to be made on your behalf
- 📝 Any existing Power of Attorney or Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT)
How Do You Create One?
There is no one “official” form. You can:
- Download an NHS or charity template (see links below)
- Write your own letter
- Record a video or voice note if communication is difficult
- Work with a nurse or care coordinator to fill it in
Once completed, your plan should be shared with your GP, family, carers, and any care home or hospital involved in your support.
Is It Legally Binding?
An Advance Care Plan is not a legal document. However, your wishes carry moral and clinical weight, and healthcare professionals are encouraged to follow them wherever possible—especially when written clearly and shared in advance.
You may also choose to create:
- 🔐 A Lasting Power of Attorney (Health and Welfare)
- 🚫 An Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT)
These are legally binding and can accompany your ACP for added protection.
How Often Should You Review It?
You can update your ACP at any time—especially after a new diagnosis, hospital visit, or change in wishes. Keep it flexible, and revisit it annually or after key life events.
Make sure all copies are updated and shared after changes are made.
🧠 Surprise AI Prompt: Your 5-Senses Legacy Scene
Prompt:
“Describe your ideal end-of-life setting using all five senses. What would you want to see, hear, smell, feel, and taste in your final days?”
This powerful description can help guide loved ones and carers in making your final days deeply personal and peaceful.
Where to Find Templates & Help
Your GP, district nurse, or hospice team can also help you complete a personalised care plan with the NHS.