Mental Act 2005

Mental Capacity Act
2005
A general guide on how the Mental Capacity Act affects you and how you can plan ahead for
when you no longer have the mental capacity to make decisions for yourself. Applies to
England and Wales.

Contents
Overview ...................................................................................................................... 5
Quick facts ............................................................................................................. 5
Please note ............................................................................................................ 5
Terms you need to know ............................................................................................... 7
About the Mental Capacity Act ......................................................................................12
What is the Mental Capacity Act? ............................................................................12
What are my rights under the Mental Capacity Act? ..................................................12
What is the difference between the Mental Health Act and the Mental Capacity Act? ...12
Capacity ......................................................................................................................14
What does 'lacking capacity' mean? ........................................................................14
How is my mental capacity assessed? .....................................................................16
What happens if I am found to lack capacity? ..........................................................16
If I have a mental health diagnosis or have been detained under the Mental Health Act,
will I always lack capacity to make my own decisions? ..............................................17
Best interests...............................................................................................................18
What are my best interests?...