Using the Mental Capacity Act: a resource for families and friends of people with learning disabilities

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 sets out what should happen in England and Wales if someone is unable to make decisions for themselves. This information pack is designed to help the family carers of people with learning disabilities understand how the Mental Capacity Act applies to them when: they want to support a member of their family to make a decision; the family carer needs to make a decision or act on a relative’s behalf; and a worker or organisation makes a decision or acts on behalf of their relative. The written material in the pack gives detailed information about what should happen in these situations and recommends sources of further information and advice on specific topics. Sections include: the five principles of the Mental Capacity Act; code of practice of the mental capacity act; involving family; assessing capacity; best interests; transition to adulthood; moving home; getting authority to make decisions; managing finances; welfare benefits appointee; applying to be a deputy; lasting power of attorney; decisions about health care: challenging; safeguarding; deprivation of liberty safeguards; and words and phrases included in this information.