The Mental Capacity Act is a major strand within the protection legislation of England and Wales and Equal and Diverse has developed consistently well received training in this field.

Our one day programme which is directed at social care staff, health professionals and support staff, is a participative session based on real case scenarios which explores some of the dilemmas and challenges in putting the Act into practice.

Amongst other issues covered are:

• What is a mental capacity assessment and how does it relate to the legislation?
• The principles and key messages of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 especially Section 4 (Best Interests) – where it came from, how it relates to the Human Rights Act 1998, its limitations and tests for capacity.
• The relationship between individual human rights and best interest decision making.
• What are the cultural and language barriers/issues which staff experience in their work and what lessons have been learnt from elsewhere, especially re issue of language and comprehension re capacity.
• The individual journey – modelling the real experience of an individual through the Act’s assessment process, highlighting issues of choice, advance capacity, autonomy, rights, personalisation and support.
• Distinctive client issues, e.g., learning disability, mental health, older people, stroke clients and addiction etc.
• Practice issues relating to the role of the Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA); Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) and the Public Guardian
• Practically how does one assess capacity and make decisions in someone’s best interests.
• Putting it into practice – local challenges.
• Dealing with challenge and conflicting needs and agendas – from partners, advocates and individuals.

We also undertake more in depth training on the relationship between mental capacity, human rights and safeguarding. Please contact us if you require more information.