Next of Kin
Many unmarried partners worry about how the hospital would treat them if their partner had an accident or became ill. Would hospital staff understand that you are the closest person to your partner, even though you aren’t married? Would they treat you as their next of kin?
In this section we explain what the term 'next of kin' really means and show you how you can make sure your partner is treated as your next of kin by the hospital, should you become ill.
Where there's a will...
Naming your partner as your next of kin won't help them inherit from you. You need to make a will. Go to our Wills & Inheritance Issues section for more information.
Read our features or Download our 
Next Of Kin (103 KB) - it comes complete with a Next of Kin card to be kept in your wallet. The card will help clarify your wishes if you fall ill, and ensure that your partner is treated as your next of kin.
