NHS England: Guidance to support implementation of the Mental Capacity Act in acute trusts for adults with a learning disability (28 May 2025)

Summary

This guidance supports trusts and community providers in enabling frontline staff to fulfil their legal requirements under the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005, specifically when supporting people with a learning disability.

A Health Services Safety Investigations Body Report in 2023, on the care of acute hospital inpatients with a learning disability in England, found variation in staff understanding and application of the MCA in the care of people with a learning disability.

Leadership within Trusts have been asked to ensure they understand the guidance, take the actions indicated and make these resources available to all frontline staff.