Applying the Mental Capacity Act for staff working with 16/17 year olds - (10/07/2025)

This 1/2-day course aims to develop CYP practitioners understanding of the MCA Act 2005 and how to apply the legislation to their safeguarding practice when working with young people (16 years and above). The session will also consider capacity in relation to Gillick Competency and Fraser Guidelines.

The session will support CYP practitioners to become more aware of the risk considerations, support options and best practice guidance to enable practitioners to respond effectively and lawfully.

Target Audience:

The session will act as a useful follow up for multi-agency practitioners that have attended Group B or Group C training, and who have not attended MCA CYP training previously. This session is likely to be too basic for qualified / experienced Social Workers or equivalent, however newly qualified registered practitioners may find this session beneficial.

Learning Outcomes:

• Develop knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and how this applies in practice to 16 and 17 year olds including the 5 Principles, overview of capacity assessments with decision specific nature and best interest,
• Understand the importance of gaining consent, and what is considered when supporting children & young people
• Discuss relevant legal and practice cases to support professionals appropriately apply MCA when working with young people
• Identify roles (parents /carers/ professionals/ advocates) and how they contribute to MCA process