What is the Mental Capacity Act? – Safeguarding Matters

What is the Mental Capacity Act

Everything you ever wanted to know about the MCA!

The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) protects and empowers people who may lack the mental capacity to make their own decisions about their care and treatment. It applies to people aged 16 and over.

The MCA covers decisions about everyday things, like what to wear or what to buy for the weekly shop. It also covers serious life-changing decisions.

In this episode of Safeguarding Matters, Laura Thorpe talks to ACT’s safeguarding adults lead Lisa Curtis about the MCA. They talk about the key principles of the act, and who it applies to. They also discuss more detailed aspects of the MCA, such as lasting powers of attorney and the need for the “least restrictive” option in every decision.

Listen below:

PLEASE NOTE! We’re aware of the sound issues on this podcast. We’ll record a new version and upload it as soon as possible.