About the Course
Mental Capacity Act (MCA) & Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) Training
The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) & Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) training course provides healthcare staff and social care workers with a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework governing decision‑making for individuals who may lack capacity. This course is essential for anyone working with vulnerable adults in healthcare, residential, or community settings, where conditions such as dementia, learning disabilities, or mental health issues may affect a person’s ability to make informed decisions.
Participants will learn how to assess mental capacity, make lawful best‑interest decisions, and ensure compliance with DoLS to protect individuals’ rights and prevent unlawful deprivation of liberty. The session also strengthens confidence in documentation, record‑keeping, and applying the MCA in real‑world scenarios.
Course Content
The syllabus includes:
Purpose, scope, and key principles of the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005
Defining mental capacity and understanding the legal criteria for assessment
Sections 5 and 6 of the MCA and the legal protections they provide
Roles and responsibilities of the Court of Protection, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA), and Independent Mental Capacity Advocates (IMCA)
Purpose and process of DoLS and when safeguards apply
Steps for DoLS applications, authorisations, reviews, and appeals
Maintaining accurate records of capacity assessments, decisions, and authorisations in line with legal and best‑practice standards
Course Details
Suitable for: Healthcare staff, social care workers
Delivery method: Face‑to‑face / Virtual training
Course length: 1 day
Maximum attendees: 15 delegates