The family of a Perth farmer, who signed away £425,000 on his deathbed, has received support for their campaign to change the law. Hourglass Scotland, an older people’s charity, is backing the efforts by the family of Willie Johnston, a Craigend farmer who passed away in January 2020 at the age of 60. The campaign seeks to have a medical professional co-sign all legal documents of vulnerable individuals to demonstrate their capacity.
Willie Johnston, a well-known figure at Perth Farmers’ Market and Perth Show, found himself signing legal documents while in Perth ICU in late December 2019. Less than two weeks later, he informed his daughters, Laura Johnston-Brand and Karen Lee, that he had no memory of signing the documents, yet they remained legally binding. This resulted in the devaluation of his estate and the redirection of hundreds of thousands of pounds from a life insurance policy to a business partner.
In August of this year, Laura and Karen actively participated in the Willie’s Law campaign, distributing leaflets in Perth city centre to raise awareness. The campaign advocates for comprehensive changes in Scotland’s adult safeguarding laws to enhance rigor, reporting systems, and dedicated resources to prevent abuse. Laura expressed the importance of Willie’s Law in protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that their wishes are carried out while safeguarding them from coercion.
Hourglass deputy chief executive and policy director, Veronica Gray, emphasized the charity’s support for Willie’s Law during Safer Ageing Week, aiming to bring about meaningful and lasting changes for older people in Scotland. The case involving Willie Johnston’s solicitor, Craig Robert Harvie, who was found guilty of misconduct, highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by terminally ill individuals when legal documents are presented to them without adequate oversight.
The family’s advocacy for Willie’s Law underscores the need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and ensure their wishes are respected. By partnering with Hourglass Scotland, they aim to create a safer environment for aging individuals across Scotland.
Insights and Summary:
The campaign led by the family of Willie Johnston sheds light on the importance of stronger safeguards in legal procedures involving vulnerable individuals, especially those who may lack capacity due to illness or other circumstances. The emotional and financial impact of Willie signing away a significant sum on his deathbed highlights the need for greater protection in such situations. Collaborating with organisations like Hourglass Scotland can amplify the voices of families like the Johnstons and drive meaningful change in legislation to prevent similar occurrences in the future.