Power of Attornet (health) for someone who's been sectioned

[Matchingcollarandcuffs]

A relative I have POA for (but am but next of kin) had been sectioned and they are proposing ECT as so far not responding to meds. They have switched meds this week so I feel it would be worth waiting a bit to see if there is a response before the ECT due to risk to short term memory.

Does POA have any away on these circs or does the section do away with need for consent at all? They are now on a 6m section 3, was granted during initial 28 days.

Diagnosis is psychosis (no risk to others) and depression.

This is so stressful asI feel like there is an expectation for me to intervene even though they are a pretty distant relative (and POA is joint with sibling who is abroad with work)

^ am not next of kin

I think you should speak to your relative’s care team about this and possibly the local Mental Health Act Office as they will know how the Section 3 and the Power of Attorney interact. I think it might be complicated if you are not next of kin (and the Power of Attorney is joint) as the Next of Kin are usually identified as the Nearest Relative and given power under the Section 3.

Thanks. I'd prefer that tbh, I think the NoK is in a better position than me to consent, I was just worried it would fall to me and I really don't feel I am involved enough either way to make decisions.