Mental Capacity Act Assessment Record

A record of a mental capacity assessment for one specific decision, and, where the person lacks capacity, the best interests decision that follows. It walks the assessor through the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, the functional and causative stages of the test, the best interests checklist, consultation, the least restrictive option, independent advocacy and a deprivation of liberty screen.

• When there is a reason to doubt a person’s capacity to make a specific decision about their care
• Before covert medication, restrictive equipment, a change of accommodation or other significant decisions
• When reviewing an earlier assessment because the person’s condition has changed

• Use one form per decision – never a general “lacks capacity” label
• Record the evidence in detail, including the person’s own words
• Complete Parts 7 to 10 only if the person lacks capacity for the decision
• Have the registered manager review it and set a review date