Key Concepts in Social Work Practice by unknow

Author:unknow
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Social Work
ISBN: 9781446290309
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Published: 2012-11-12T05:00:00+00:00

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Mental Capacity

Mandy Schofield

DEFINITION

Mental capacity can be defined as the ability to make autonomous decisions; a highly valued attribute amongst adults in democratic society (Dunn et al., 2007). Historically, particular groups of people have been classed as lacking decision-making capacity simply due to the presence of mental disorder or disability (Boyle, 2008). Viewing capacity in such global terms can deprive people of exerting any agency in decision making, thus denying their right to self-determination and autonomy. The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005, covering England and Wales, was implemented in October 2007 and provides a statutory framework for people over the age of 16 who lack capacity to make decisions for themselves. The Act clearly sets out the steps to be taken in making decisions for people who have lost their decision-making abilities and is intended to protect and empower vulnerable adults in relation to decisions about their healthcare, welfare or finances.

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