Call for members to join an Advisory Group for mental capacity issues

Psychologists often make informed decisions about a client's capacity to make their own judgements. Sometimes these decisions are straightforward, but in some circumstances, where vulnerability and complex social and legal issues are involved, decisions about mental capacity may be more difficult. 

The Mental Capacity Advisory Group provides guidance to BPS members, the public and other healthcare professionals on issues relating to mental capacity and plays a key role in supporting psychologists to make informed decisions about assessments of mental capacity. 

The Group is currently recruiting new members to join them and help support the development of professional standards and answer questions from the profession. New members will need to attend around four meetings a year and will be part of a Group that reports directly to the Practice Board. 

The Advisory Group has previously published guidance on 'What makes a good assessment of capacity?' and capacity to consent to sexual relations, and the new members will help play a vital role in developing future guidelines in the area of mental capacity.  

The Advisory Group is particularly interested in receiving applications from psychologists who are: 

• Working with people who have learning disabilities 
• Working with older people 
• Working in the field of health psychology 
• Representatives from devolved nations 

Advisory Group Chair, Dr Louise Warren said: 

"The work the Mental Capacity Advisory Group does is important in informing best practice when conducting and reporting on mental capacity assessments as well as keeping up to date with evolving case law and the implications for clinical practice.  

"The Group functions effectively, with working groups achieving their milestones using friendly and compassionate approaches to supporting each other. We look forward to receiving applications and welcoming interested individuals to our friendly and productive group." 

Interested members can apply to join the Group.