Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA)

This is a statutory service created under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 to provide safeguards for adults who lack capacity to make certain decisions.

An IMCA must be instructed when a person lacks capacity to make a decision about serious medical treatment or long-term accommodation and has no appropriate family or friends to consult. An IMCA may also support people in relation to Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), including assessments, acting as a Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR), and supporting people subject to a DoLS authorisation or their unpaid representative.

Ensuring your voice is heard when it matters most.

Havering Community and Statutory Advocacy Service provides free, independent and confidential advocacy. We support people to understand their rights, express their views, and be involved in decisions that affect their lives. Our advocates work alongside individuals to ensure their voice is heard and respected.

What an IMCA will do:

• As far as possible, ascertain the person’s feelings, wishes, beliefs and values.
• Support the person who lacks capacity and represents their views and interests to the decision maker.
• Get the views of professionals and paid workers supporting the person.
• Check the decision being made is in line with the Mental Capacity Act.
• Write and submit a report to the decision maker (which they must take into account before making the decision).