Planning for the future
None of us can see what the future holds but with a little bit of planning we can ensure that we have as much say as possible about those things that affect us.
If you have concerns about making decisions about your care, for example, for yourself or a member of your family, it is worth investigating how the provisions of the Mental Capacity Act can help.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 empowers and protects people who may lack capacity to make some decisions for themselves. It makes it clear who can take decisions in which situations, and how they should go about this. It also allows people to plan ahead for a time when they may lack capacity. It may help you if:
- You currently find it difficult to make decisions sometimes or all of the time
- You want to plan ahead in case you are unable to make decisions in the future
This could be because of a learning disability, mental health problems, brain injury, dementia, alcohol or drug misuse, side effects of treatment or any other illness or disability.
The website of the Office of the Public Guardian provides a wealth of information on decision making and planning for the future within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act. Or you can contact them by phone on 0300 456 0300 (Phone lines are open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm, except Wednesday 10am - 5pm)