Claire Sugden

The independent MLA yesterday tabled a number of written questions to the justice, finance, health and communities ministers in Stormont in relation to the controllership system.

In a statement, Ms Sugden said Northern Ireland is “the only part of the UK without a clear legal framework for controllership, leaving families unable to manage their loved ones financial and personal affairs”.

“Without legal authority, parents cannot access their child’s bank account, arrange care, or plan for the future, placing them under immense stress and uncertainty,” she said.

“Parents of disabled adults tell me they live in fear of what will happen to their child when they are no longer here. They cannot legal manage their child’s finances, secure housing or put long-term care plans in place. The current system offers no structured pathway to do so.

“Instead families face legal dead ends, financial barriers and endless delays. This is a cruel and unnecessary burden on families who already sacrifice so much.”

She continued: “I have tabled a number of questions to the ministers of justice, health and finance asking what measures are currently in place to provide families guidance on the current process and seeking information on what financial support is available for families seeking controllership.

“I am also deeply concerned about vulnerable adults who do not have family support. Without a legal representative, they are often left without anyone to advocate for their financial, housing or welfare needs.

“This is not just an oversight — it is a fundamental failing of the system. The rest of the UK has dedicated legal pathways to protect disabled individuals and their families. Families in Northern Ireland are left fighting a system that does not exist.

“The Executive must act now to introduce a clear, fair and accessible controllership framework.”