• Level 2
  • 2-3 Hours Duration
  • 1 Year Certificate

Mental Capacity Act and DoLS Training

This Mental Capacity Act & DoLS training course is aimed at people who have a duty of care towards vulnerable adults.

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This Mental Capacity Act & DoLS training course is aimed at people who have a duty of care towards vulnerable adults.

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Course Summary

  • Define and discuss what the term mental capacity means
  • Discuss and state who is affected by the Act and how consent is gained
  • Discuss and evaluate the five core principles of the Act
  • Explain how mental capacity is assessed
  • Discuss the role of the Court of Protection
  • Define the term Deprivation of Liberty
  • Discuss Safeguards including risk assessments
  • Discuss the assessment and authorisation process under Deprivation of Liberty

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FAQs

Training FAQs

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    Where Do You Deliver The Mental Capacity Act & DoLS Training?

    We can deliver this training at your premises, as long as it's within the UK. We also have our own venues in the Midlands if you don't have access to a training room. Also, we are able to deliver this training virtually using Zoom.

    Who Is This Mental Capacity Act & DoLS Training For?

    This training is for anyone working within the health and social care sector.

    How Many Delegates Can I Have On One Session?

    We will deliver this training for a group of up to 12 delegates. Similarly, for larger groups we can either provide multiple trainers on the same day or run multiple days to get everyone trained.

    Who Will Conduct The Training?

    One of our expert tutors. These are all care workers with an abundance of first hand care experience and knowledge - so you'll be in great hands! Furthermore, we will let you know who is doing the training in advance. You can check out their skills and experience by finding them on our meet the team page.

Mental Capacity Act and DoLS Training

This training course covers the important parts of the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Participants will learn the five key principles of the MCA and how to use them in real-life situations.

We will also look at how to check if someone can make decisions, what the Court of Protection does in these situations, and how Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) help protect people from losing their freedom without good reasons.

The course explains how to assess mental capacity and make best interests decisions for those who may not be able to decide for themselves. It also discusses the legal rules of DoLS, including when and how to use them to protect vulnerable people.

Through case studies and classroom exercises, attendees will gain the skills needed to handle challenging situations involving mental capacity and restrictions on liberty.

By the end of the training, participants will be ready to support the rights and dignity of individuals while following legal and ethical standards in health and social care.

You can also check the Advanced MCA Level 3 Training which is for Managers.

The Mental Capacity Act & DoLS training course targets individuals who bear a duty of care towards vulnerable adults. MCA DOLS training focuses on how to support adults who may lack the mental capacity to make their own decisions.

You can also check out the Advanced MCA Level 3 Training, which is for Managers.

 

Course Info:

  • Course Duration: 2- 3 hours
  • Course Level: Level 2
  • Certificate: 1-year certificate
  • Max Delegates: 12
  • Practical: Yes
  • Course Mode: Face to Face/ Blended
  • Accreditation: Skill for Care

 

This training will be completed with a test to see if you get what is important and if you can use the MCA and DOLs training ideas in real situations.

 

Online Courses: If what you are interested in is the mental capacity act and dols online training, please visit the shop section ( safeguarding online courses) and type in the search box to select the right course.

 

Course Module: Mental Capacity Act and Dols Training

1: Introduction to Mental Capacity

  • 1.1 Definition of Mental Capacity
    • Overview of mental capacity
    • Importance in healthcare and legal settings
  • 1.2 Who is Affected by the Act
    • Individuals with impaired mental capacity
    • Caregivers, healthcare professionals, and legal representatives
    • The role of consent in practice

Core Principles of the Mental Capacity Act

  • 2.1 The Five Core Principles
    • Principle of Presumption of Capacity
    • Right to Make Unwise Decisions
    • Best Interests
    • Least Restrictive Option
    • Involvement in Decision-Making
  • 2.2 Evaluation of the Principles
    • Practical implications for practitioners
    • Case studies illustrating the principles

3: Assessing Mental Capacity

  • 3.1 Mental Capacity Assessment Process
    • Step-by-step guide to assessment
    • Criteria for assessing capacity
    • Documentation and reporting requirements

4: Court of Protection

  • 4.1 Overview of the Court of Protection
    • Role and functions
    • Types of decisions made by the court
  • 4.2 The Process of Making Applications
    • Who can apply and under what circumstances
    • Outcome of applications and rights of individuals

5: Deprivation of Liberty

  • 5.1 Definition of Deprivation of Liberty
    • Legal context and significance
    • Difference between restraint and deprivation of liberty

6: Safeguards and Risk Assessments

  • 6.1 Understanding Safeguards
    • Overview of legal safeguards under the Mental Capacity Act
    • Importance of risk assessments in practice
  • 6.2 Conducting Risk Assessments
    • Key components and methodologies
    • Ensuring safety and respect for individuals’ rights

7: DoLS Assessment and Authorisation Process

  • 7.1 The DoLS Process
    • Criteria for assessment under DoLS
    • Multi-disciplinary approach to assessments
  • 7.2 Authorisation of Deprivation of Liberty
    • Steps for obtaining authorisation
    • Role of the supervisory body
    • Monitoring and review processes

8: Conclusion and Q&A

  • 8.1 Recap of Key Concepts
    • Summary of mental capacity and DoLS
  • 8.2 Questions and Discussion
    • Open floor for participant questions
    • Real-life scenarios and solutions

 

Learning Outcome:

After completing the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS Training, attendees will:

  1. Understand what mental capacity means and how it affects decision-making.
  2. Know who the Mental Capacity Act affects and why getting permission is important.
  3. Use the five main ideas of the Act to make sure decisions are good for people.
  4. Learn how to check if someone can make decisions and decide what to do based on that.
  5. Understand what the Court of Protection does to protect people’s rights.
  6. Know what Deprivation of Liberty means and why it’s important.
  7. Use different ways to keep people safe, like checking risks.
  8. Understand how Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards work and what the process is to make sure everything’s legal.
  9. Feel ready to handle tricky situations and make sure people’s rights are respected, even if they can’t decide for themselves.

 

Target Audience

This Mental Capacity Act course is useful for:

  • Healthcare professionals (like care workers, doctors, nurses, and therapists)
  • Social workers and care managers
  • Mental health workers
  • Staff in care homes and those providing home care
  • Legal professionals in health and social care
  • Best Interest Assessors and DoLS signers
  • Care home managers and office staff
  • Local authority workers involved in adult safeguarding
  • Advocacy workers
  • Family caregivers and those with lasting power of attorney

Anyone involved in caring for, supporting, or making decisions for adults who may not be able to decide for themselves will benefit from this course.

 

Pair Courses for Full-Day Training: Book Mental Health Awareness Training or Add Other Safeguarding Courses.

 

Benefits of MCA and DOLs training

MCA and DoLS training bring lots of benefits for both professionals and the people they help.

Here are reasons why it’s so helpful:

For Professionals:

  • Better Choices: It gives a clear way to make good choices for people who might not be able to decide for themselves, making sure choices are right and fair.
  • More Confidence: It helps workers/employees feel sure about handling difficult situations where mental capacity matters, making them more confident in what they decide.
  • Less Legal Trouble: It lowers the chance of getting in legal trouble by making sure professionals know and follow the law about MCA and DoLS.
  • Effective Communication: It gives workers tools to effectively communicate with people who might struggle to make choices, making it easier to understand and work together.
  • Improved Practice: It encourages putting the person first by making sure choices are made while thinking about what the person wants and feels, whenever possible.

For Individuals who may lack Capacity:

  • Safeguarding rights: It protects the rights and safety of people who might not be able to make choices by making sure choices are made for their best interests.
  • Feeling Strong: When possible, training helps people join in making choices, making them feel strong and in control.
  • Less Fuss: By showing what’s right and fair, training can stop fights in situations where someone’s ability to choose is questioned.
  • Better Help: It helps make sure people get the right care and help that fits what they need and like.
  • Seeing Clearly: It makes how choices are made easier to understand, so people and their families can see why choices are made.

Overall, MCA and DoLS training are important for keeping the rights and safety of adults safe. It helps employees make smart and fair choices while putting the person first in care.

 

e-Learning Courses: Buy 5 Safeguarding eLearning Courses for £50.

Course Reviews

course rated "excellent" by thousands

Our Onsite MCA and DoLS Training Course is rated ‘Excellent’ by attendees. You can read some reviews below:

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“This was very informative and made me realize how we can easily ignore people with learning difficulties and need to be much more accepting of their problems.It was also helpful to learn of the many different mental health issues. I will try to remember all these things in my work with patients.” – Janis McCrossan

 

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“Thanks for the course Instructor, the professional way she explained each and every thing in details. It was really great experience to learn lot more about DOLS and mental health” – Nabila Fatima Chaudhary

 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Recently attended a training course regarding Mental Capacity, I found the information extremely relevant to my work and the clients I care for, the trainer was knowledgeable and engaging while giving us the opportunity to ask questions and share ideas. I would recommend this company to anyone.” – Jackie Bailey

 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“The trainer was very engaging and the training was delivered in an easy to understand informative manner.” – Anonymous

 

Career Opportunities

There are many good jobs in health and social care where you can help people with different needs. Here are some options:

  1. Healthcare Worker: Working in hospitals or clinics to care for patients.
  2. Social Worker: Helping people and families find support and resources.
  3. Mental Health Practitioner: Assisting people with mental health problems through talking and counseling.
  4. Care Manager: Making sure care plans are followed and that clients get good support.
  5. Best Interest Assessor: Checking what is best for people who may not be able to decide for themselves.
  6. DoLS Signatory: Approving Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards to protect people’s rights.
  7. Care Home Manager: Leading staff in a care home and ensuring good care for residents.
  8. Advocacy Worker: Helping people speak up for themselves and know their rights.
  9. Family Caregiver: Taking care of family members who need help.
  10. Local Authority Staff: Working with local government to help keep people safe in the community.

These jobs let you make a positive difference in people’s lives while growing your career in health and social care.

 

Pair Level 2 Courses for Full-Day Training:: Safeguarding Children Training and Safeguarding Adults Training.

 

Safeguarding Instructor Training Course

 

Questions and Answers

What is mental capacity act course about?

Mental capacity act course teaches you to support adults who may struggle with decisions, focusing on their well-being and following legal guidelines for informed choices.

The course covers aspect such as:

  • Understanding Mental Capacity: Knowing if someone can make particular decisions.
  • Decision-Making: Putting the person’s well-being first, even if they can’t make the choice themselves.
  • Core Principles: Following legal rules for making smart and fair choices.
  • Court of Protection: Knowing what to do if someone can’t decide for themselves.

With this training, you’ll be ready to help when someone needs support with decision-making.

 

Is Mental Capacity Act Training Mandatory?

Yes, Mental Capacity Act training is considered essential for many jobs that involve working with or helping people who might struggle to make decisions independently.

Here is why it’s so important:

  1. It’s the law: The Mental Capacity Act 2005 is a rule that applies everywhere in England and Wales. If you work with people who might not be able to make decisions, you have to follow this law and its rules.
  2. Industry standards: In fields like healthcare and social care, regulatory bodies and standards state groups that check on rules and skills say staff must get proper Mental Capacity Act training when they start and as they keep learning.
  3. Keeping people safe: Knowing about mental capacity and doing things the right way is important for protecting people who might need help with decisions.
  4. Human rights: The Mental Capacity Act is there to make sure people’s rights are respected. This means making decisions that are best for them with the right support.
  5. Consent and best choices: If your job is about caring for people or giving them help, you need to know how to check if they can decide things, get permission the right way, and make choices that are good for them.

The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) doesn’t apply universally, but for many roles, especially in healthcare, social care, local government, and other professions that support people who may struggle with decision-making, solid MCA training is vital. It makes sure you know what to do, follow the law, and do your job well.

 

Is Deprivation of liberty training a mandatory training?

No, Deprivation of Liberty (DoLS) training isn’t a must for everyone. But it becomes necessary for certain people in situations where DoLS matters.

Here are things to keep in mind:

  • Not Usually Needed: Most jobs don’t require DoLS training.
  • Needed for Specific Roles in DoLS Cases: If someone’s situation involves DoLS (like being stopped from doing things freely), certain people involved in deciding about it have to complete a DoLS training. This helps them know the law and do their job right.

Who often needs DoLS training (when DoLS matters):

  • Social workers who check DoLS situations.
  • Healthcare workers who make choices about care and freedom.
  • Best Interest Assessors (BIAs) who look into DoLS situations.
  • Managers who handle DoLS cases in their groups.

Even if DoLS course isn’t needed for your job, it can be really useful for anyone who works with adults who might need extra help, especially in health and social care places. It helps you know when DoLS matters, follow the rules, and keep people safe.

 

How frequent should dentists complete mental capacity training?

There isn’t a strict rule saying how often dentists must refresh Mental Capacity Act (MCA) training.

But here’s what’s generally recommended:

  • First-Time Training: When dentists start their career or join a new practice, they should get thorough MCA training as part of their initial learning and orientation. This helps them understand the basics of the Act.
  • Regular Refreshers: It’s a good idea for dentists to have a refresher MCA training every 2-3 years. This keeps them updated on any legal changes and helps them remember the best ways to do things.
  • Advice from Dental Bodies: Groups like the General Dental Council (GDC) suggest that dentists should do ongoing training to keep up their skills, including knowing about consent and capacity.
  • Practice Rules: Some dental practices might have their own rules about how often MCA training should happen. They might ask for it every year or every two years, as part of their own training and quality checks.

Even though it’s not a strict rule, doing MCA training every 2-3 years is seen as a good idea for dentists.

This makes sure they can check if someone’s able to make choices, follow the legal rules about consent and best interests, and keep patients who might need extra help safe, following all the latest advice and laws.

 

What are examples that explains Mental Capacity Act?

These are two scenarios to help you understand what mental capacity act and why taking a mental capacity act course is important for these cases.

Scenario 1: Medical Treatment and Alice’s Wishes

Alice, an 82-year-old woman with Alzheimer’s disease, needs surgery. Her doctor believes the surgery is in her best interests but also carries some risks.

Alice, in her lucid moments, has expressed a strong desire not to have any invasive medical procedures.

Mental Capacity Considerations:

  • Can Alice understand the information about the surgery, including the risks and benefits?
  • Can she retain this information long enough to make a decision?
  • Can she use this information to weigh the options and communicate her choice?

Practical Solutions:

  • The doctor can assess Alice’s mental capacity using a structured interview and gather information from her family about her past wishes.
  • If Alice lacks capacity, the doctor can involve her family in discussions about her care, considering Alice’s best interests and any previously expressed wishes.
  • The doctor can explain the situation clearly and simply, allowing Alice to participate in the decision-making process as much as possible, even if her capacity is limited.

Scenario 2: John’s Finances and Bill Payments

John, a 75-year-old man living alone, has recently been diagnosed with mild dementia. He forgets to pay his bills and struggles to manage his finances.

His concerned daughter, Mary, wants to help.

Mental Capacity Considerations:

  • Does John understand the importance of paying bills and the consequences of not doing so?
  • Can he manage his finances safely and effectively?

Practical Solutions:

  • Mary can work with John to assess his capacity for managing finances.
  • If John lacks capacity, Mary can explore options like applying to become a power of attorney for John’s finances.
  • This would allow Mary to manage his bills and ensure his financial well-being while respecting his autonomy as much as possible.
  • Mary could also help John set up automatic bill payments or simplify his financial arrangements to make them easier for him to manage.

 

Designated safeguarding lead (DSL) training

 

What is the difference between MCA training and DoLS training?

MCA training and DoLS training are both important for understanding how to support adults who may struggle with making decisions. Think of MCA training like a map of a whole city, showing you all the roads and important places. DoLS training zooms in on a specific part of that city, explaining the rules and roads in that area.

They both focus on different aspects:

MCA Training (Mental Capacity Act):

  • Focuses on the main ideas of the Mental Capacity Act (MCA).
  • Helps you figure out if someone can make a specific decision at a specific time.
  • Talks about the five key principles for making decisions under the MCA, like putting the person’s well-being first and respecting their rights.
  • Explains how to decide what’s best for someone when they can’t make the decision themselves.
  • Talks about the Court of Protection’s role when someone can’t make decisions.

DoLS Training (Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards):

  • Focuses on Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), which is a part of the MCA.
  • Deals with situations where an adult who can’t make decisions is being stopped from moving freely, either physically (like locked doors) or mentally (because they’re scared or being controlled).
  • Explains the legal stuff for checking if a DoLS situation is happening.
  • Covers the process for getting permission for DoLS, making sure there are rules in place to keep people safe from being stopped unfairly.
  • Says it’s important to regularly check DoLS permissions.

Mental Capacity Act Course gives you the basics to understand mental capacity and make smart choices in these cases. Deprivation of Liberty Safeguarding Course goes deeper into one specific situation (when someone’s freedom is restricted) within the MCA rules, so you’re ready to handle those situations with the right legal protections.

 

How Long is MCA and DoLS Training?

MCA DoLS training length varies depending on format, provider, and content focus.
  • Short courses (half day to 1 day) cover MCA basics and DoLS introduction.
  • Standard courses (1-2 days) which goes deeper into MCA principles and DoLS procedures. You can check our mca training for managers or dsl training here.
  • Comprehensive courses (2+ days) offer extensive exploration of both MCA and DoLS.

Please discuss with our Course Advisors to help us provide more tailored answers regarding specific aspects of the MCA DOLS Course.

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