Sense has been awarded money from the Department of Health to develop training around communication for advocates and advocacy organisations intending to provide the Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy service.
The new role of Independent Mental Capacity Advocate ( IMCA ) has been created by the Mental Capacity Act (2005). An IMCA is someone appointed to support and represent a person who lacks capacity to make a serious decision about a serious medical treatment or long term care move.
The IMCA makes representations about the person's wishes, feelings, beliefs and values, and brings to the attention of the decision-maker all factors that are relevant to the decision. The IMCA can challenge the decision-maker on behalf of the person lacking capacity if necessary.
Report of advocacy schemes training needs
Sense surveyed advocacy schemes at the end of 2006 to assess their knowledge, experience and ability in communicating with, supporting and representing a person who lacks capacity and has no formal communication. From this survey a report was produced called Capacity to Communicate: A survey of advocacy schemes identifying the level of knowledge and experience in non-verbal communication and non-instructed advocacy. You can view the report (pdf, 204 KB)
The results from this survey have been used to create a comprehensive training course and accompanying toolkit. The training programme will begin to roll out across the country from May 2007. Find out more about the training or book your place.
