Mental Capacity Act 2005 in practice: learning materials for adult social workers

The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) was developed to co-ordinate, bring together and simplify the law about the care and treatment of people who lack capacity. This document provides information and guidance for adult social care workers on the key principles and provisions of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and considers how social workers can apply its principles to their practice. Areas covered include Best interests, Advanced decisions, Five principles of the Act, Assessing capacity and decision making. It is designed to be used by social workers at all levels, from front line practitioners to senior social workers, social work supervisors and managers, to help social workers to develop their skills in supporting individuals who may lack mental capacity. The document includes short case examples and reflective exercises throughout.