The Guardianship Unit provides surrogate or substitute decision-making services for persons who are unable to make decisions for themselves and referred by the agency’s Protective Services Unit

The authority for assuming this role may come from the person under a Power of Attorney, a Representative Payeeship granted by the Social Security Administration, a Fiduciary as appointed by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs or from the Orphans’ Court which issues Guardianship decrees. Of these possibilities the least restrictive must be chosen.

Once the proper authority is in place, the Guardianship Unit will provide or pursue the provision of services needed to assure adequate food, shelter, clothing, socialization, financial management and safety.

A trained staff including case managers, case aides, a nurse and an accountant provide these services and are in consultation with the Westmoreland County Solicitor’s Office on legal matters.