Space To Breathe Therapy

Independent Mental Capacity Advocates (IMCA)

Understanding the IMCA role, when advocacy is required and how it supports rights and participation

Independent Mental Capacity Advocates provide an important statutory safeguard for people who lack capacity to make certain significant decisions.

This resource explains when an IMCA must or may become involved, what their role includes and how independent advocacy can help ensure that the person’s wishes, feelings, circumstances and rights remain visible throughout decision-making.

It also distinguishes an IMCA from family involvement, Care Act advocacy, legal representation and Independent Mental Health Advocacy.

It includes:

What an IMCA is
When an IMCA must be instructed
Serious medical treatment decisions
Long-term accommodation decisions
Care reviews
Adult safeguarding situations
Understanding the person’s wishes and feelings
Accessing relevant information and records
Exploring alternatives
Scrutinising decision-making
IMCA reports and representations
What an IMCA does not do
IMCA compared with other forms of advocacy
IMCA involvement within DoLS
Section 39A, 39C and 39D IMCA roles

A clear guide to independent advocacy and the role it can play in protecting participation, rights and person-centred decision-making.

Space to Breathe Therapy