Mental Capacity Act 2005

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 is a law that protects and supports people who do not have the ability to make decisions for themselves. This could be due to a learning disability, or a mental health problem or condition such as dementia. The act applies to people aged 16 and over in England and Wales. It also provides guidance to support people who need to make decisions on behalf of someone else.

For more details see factsheet 460, Mental Capacity Act 2005