When it is determined an individual lacks capacity, any decision taken on their behalf must be in their best interests. Relevant factors to consider include the person’s past and present wishes and feelings, including any relevant written statement made when they had capacity, and their beliefs or values, where they would have impact on the decision.
Judgement will involve a discussion with those close to the individual, including family, friends and carers.
A new independent mental capacity advocacy service (IMCAS) can provide advice for patients without friends or family.
When it is determined an individual lacks capacity, any decision taken on their behalf must be in their best interests. Relevant factors to consider include the person’s past and present wishes and feelings, including any relevant written statement made when they had capacity, and their beliefs or values, where they would have impact on the decision.
Judgement will involve a discussion with those close to the individual, including family, friends and carers.
A new independent mental capacity advocacy service (IMCAS) can provide advice for patients without friends or family.
Advance decisions
A valid advance decision refusing life-sustaining treatment in writing, which is signed, witnessed and contains a statement that it applies even when life is at risk, is binding.
When it is determined an individual lacks capacity, any decision taken on their behalf must be in their best interests. Relevant factors to consider include the person’s past and present wishes and feelings, including any relevant written statement made when they had capacity, and their beliefs or values, where they would have impact on the decision.
Judgement will involve a discussion with those close to the individual, including family, friends and carers.
A new independent mental capacity advocacy service (IMCAS) can provide advice for patients without friends or family.
Lasting power of attorney
Individuals with capacity can nominate a lasting power of attorney
(LPA) to make decisions on their behalf regarding health and welfare when
they lose capacity. This does not extend to refusal of
life-sustaining treatment unless this is explicitly stated.