IMCA resource - what do IMCAs do?

IMCAs are a safeguard for people who lack capacity to make some important decisions. See Who should get an IMCA? to find out which decisions require IMCAs to make some important decisions. See Who should get an IMCA? to find out which decisions require an IMCA.

The IMCA role is to support and represent the person in the decision-making process. Essentially they make sure that the Mental Capacity Act 2005 is being followed.

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 (Independent Mental Capacity Advocates) (General) Regulations 2006 set out the IMCA’s role and functions. These are grouped below into four areas.

1. Gathering information

• Meet and interview the person (in private if possible).
• Examine relevant health and social care records.
• Get the views of professionals and paid workers.
• Get the views of anybody else who can give information about the wishes and feelings, beliefs or values of the person.
• Find out other information which may be relevant to the decision.

2. Evaluating information

• Check that the person has been supported to be involved in the decision.
• Try to work out what the person’s wishes and feelings would be if they had capacity to make the decision and what values and beliefs would influence this.
• Make sure that different options have been considered.
• Decide whether to ask for a second medical opinion where it is a serious medical treatment decision.

3. Making representations

IMCAs should raise any issues and concerns with the decision maker. This could be done verbally or in writing. IMCAs are required to produce a report for the person who instructed them. In most cases this should be provided to the decision maker before the decision is made.

People who instruct IMCAs must pay attention to any issues raised by the IMCA in making their decision.

4. Challenging decisions

In many cases IMCAs will be able to resolve any concerns they have with the decision maker before the decision is made. Where this has not been possible IMCAs may formally challenge the decision-making process. They can use local complaint procedures or try to get the matter looked at by the Court of Protection.