Whose decision?

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 is designed to support vulnerable people to make decisions for themselves whenever and as far as possible, and to protect these individuals and those who care for them when decisions have to be made on their behalf. 

The Act comes into force in April 2007. This study asks:

• What guidance is currently available and what materials/training are being developed to assist with the introduction of the new Act?
• How is mental capacity being assessed and how are decisions being made before the introduction of the new Act?
• How will mental capacity be assessed and how will decisions be made following the introduction of the new Act?