Mental Capacity Act 2005
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 protects and empowers people aged 16 and over who may lack the capacity to make specific decisions. It sets out how to assess capacity and make decisions in a person’s best interests.
Who it applies to
Everyone providing care or treatment to people who may lack capacity — across health, social care and supported living.
Key points
What MCA means for care providers in practice.
Supporting work within MCA
Capture decision-specific capacity assessments in the record.
Document best-interests decisions and who was consulted.
Flag lasting powers of attorney and advance decisions.
Support staff training on the five statutory principles.
Sectors & bodies
The care sectors most affected by MCA, and the national bodies most involved. Applicability varies by provider type, programme and UK nation.
Alongside UK-wide frameworks, care is also shaped by the distinct regulators and standards of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Explore the nations & regions directory for nation-level intelligence.
Explore other regulatory frameworks
Turn regulatory complexity into a defensible posture
CareFocusIQ brings national bodies, programmes, nations and frameworks into a single intelligent platform that supports UK care providers.
CareFocusIQ provides technology and intelligence to support care operations and compliance. It is not a medical device and does not provide legal advice. Regulatory requirements vary by provider type, service and UK nation, and remain the responsibility of each provider.