The role of the independent mental capacity advocate in adult protection

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 introduced the role of the independent mental capacity advocate (IMCA). This is essentially a new safeguard for adults when they lack the capacity to make critical health and welfare decisions, particularly those without family or friends to represent them. IMCAs can have a statutory role in adult protection cases that is detailed in this paper. Advocacy Partners (AP) was one of seven organisations piloting this service in England before the service was introduced nationally in April 2007. AP is now commissioned to provide the IMCA service in 10 local authorities in the South East. Of the 270 cases referred to Advocacy Partners that have met the criteria for an IMCA since the Act was implemented, 38 were referred as part of adult protection proceedings. This early experience of IMCA involvement in adult protection cases is discussed.