Throughout the course of 2022, OPG Scotland have been working with a group of professional financial guardians to agree a straightforward, transparent process, via which financial guardians can request an uplift in remuneration.
Remuneration is currently set on a standard scale, based on the value of the Adult’s moveable estate. There will be no change to the scale remuneration.
The uplift process allows financial guardians to request an additional payment, where the routine financial guardianship work has been excessive, or where there has been an element of non-routine work within that accounting period. Any uplifted sum is then added to the scale remuneration due.
To ensure the process is as straightforward and transparent as possible, the working group have developed a pro forma “Uplift Application Form”, with in-bedded guidance, hourly rates and an uplift rate cap. The new application should be completed by the financial guardian and submitted along with relevant evidence, with the Annual Account. It will thereafter be considered at the same time as the Annual Account, during the account review process. Any uplift sums will be added to scale remuneration, and totalled on the Audit Certificate.
In addition, as we recognise that in year one of some cases, there may not be adequate funds to cover an uplift in remuneration (usually whilst heritable property is being sold and moveable estate value is low), any uplift can be taken over a two year (accounting) period.
This process will be offered by way of a Pilot in the first instance, to members of our Professional Guardian Scheme, throughout the remainder of 2022.
It is hoped that full roll out and implementation can take place in the new year.