Mental Capacity Act

Mental capacity refers to a person's capacity to make a decision for themselves at the time the decision needs to be made.

Everyone working with and/or caring for a person over 16 years old, who may lack capacity to make particular decisions for themselves, must comply with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 when making decisions or acting for that person. The same rules apply whether the decisions are life-changing events such as having an operation or everyday matters such as what to wear. It can also help people who currently have capacity, but want to make preparations for a time when they may lack capacity to make decisions for themselves.