What is an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA)?
Some adults may find it more difficult and face more barriers to having their voice heard when decisions are being made that affect their lives.
An advocate can support the person to consider their options, views and wishes and where needed ensure their views are expressed and heard, they can provide support to challenge or complain about a decision. An advocate can also support a person to prepare and attend meetings.
The purpose of the Independent Mental Capacity Advocate is to help people who lack the mental capacity to make important decisions and, at the time such decisions need to be made, have no-one else (other than paid staff) to support or represent them or be consulted.
An IMCA can only be appointed by an NHS body or the local authority; and only in very specific circumstances that have been established in law. These are:
- an NHS body is proposing to provide serious medical treatment
- an NHS body or local authority is proposing to arrange accommodation (or change of accommodation) in hospital or a care home
- an application for Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) is being made
- Care Reviews
- safeguarding adults (this may be possible in some circumstances, even if family, friends or others are already involved)
There are specific criteria for when a referral should be made to an IMCA in each of these circumstances. For more information about refer to the Independent Mental Capacity Advocate: a guide.
Further details about Advocacy services in Darlington are available on Darlington Borough Council Website [external link].