MCA & DoLS
MCA and DoLS training gives your team the knowledge and confidence to support people who may lack capacity and safeguard their liberty. They learn to make sure every decision made on someone’s behalf is lawful, proportionate and properly recorded. Delivered on-site by our experienced trainers, with practical work wherever the subject allows.
About the course
Support people who may lack capacity and safeguard their liberty
By the end of the course, delegates will:
- Presume capacity, and know when — and how — to assess it properly
- Apply the five core principles in everyday care decisions
- Understand DoLS, and know when a deprivation of liberty authorisation is needed
- Explain what the 2026 Supreme Court ruling changes about consent
- Make, support and record best interests decisions correctly
- Know the roles of an LPA attorney, an IMCA and the Court of Protection
What you’ll cover
Full course content
Everything the course covers, exactly as our trainers deliver it:
Introduction to the Mental Capacity Act
- Mental Capacity Act
- Capacity decisions
- Person-centred, rights-based practice
The legal framework
- Human Rights Act 1998
- MCA 2005 and the 2019 amendment
- DoLS and LPS
The 2026 Supreme Court ruling
- The “Cheshire West 2” ruling of 2 June 2026
- Multifactorial test
- Compliance and consent
Related roles and safeguards
- Lasting power of attorney (LPA)
- Independent mental capacity advocates (IMCAs)
- The Mental Health Act 1983 & DoLS
The five core principles
- A presumption of capacity
- Support decisions
- Unwise decisions
- Best interests
- Least restriction
Assessing capacity
- Capacity assessment
- The two-stage test
- Case study
Making decisions and managing risk
- Informed choices
- Everyday and complex decisions
- Risk and recording decisions
Deprivation of liberty in practice
- Recognising when a DoLS is needed
- Standard authorisation
- Restraint, restriction and care planning
Legislation recap & further resources
- Key legislation
- Further support and resources
Keep exploring
Related mental health courses
These subjects sit naturally alongside this course — and we can combine courses into one visit.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Where is the training delivered?
All of our training is delivered on-site at your service, anywhere in the UK — we come to you, so there are no travel costs or venue hire for your team.
How long is the MCA & DoLS course?
It runs as a half day – 3 hours course, delivered in one visit unless stated otherwise.
How many delegates can attend?
Up to 12 delegates per session — we keep practical groups smaller so everyone gets hands-on time.
Is there a practical element?
Yes — delegates practise the techniques hands-on during the course, guided by the trainer.
Do delegates receive a certificate?
Yes — every delegate receives a certificate on completion. Certificates are valid for 2 years, so plan refresher training before they expire.
How much does the course cost?
We price every course on application, based on your dates, location and delegate numbers. Use the contact buttons below — we reply quickly with a quote.
Can we combine courses into one visit?
Yes. Many clients build a full training day from shorter courses, and we can deliver several subjects in one visit — just tell us what your team needs.
Do you only train care providers?
No. This course suits care & nursing homes, home care & domiciliary, supported living, day services, hospices. If your sector isn’t listed, ask — we’ll tailor the course to your setting.
Book this course
We bring MCA & DoLS training to your service
Delivered on-site at your service, nationwide, with pricing on application. Tell us your dates and delegate numbers and we’ll reply quickly with a quote.
Part of our mental health training range. Also explore behaviour management training and neurological training.