Mental Capacity Act Lead

Job overview

A great opportunity has arisen at the RUH for the role of Professional Lead for Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).

This is an exciting time to join us and be part of the ongoing development and progression of our vulnerable people service. The successful candidate will join a supportive team of dedicated staff who are committed to delivering improvements in service delivery and health outcomes.

The key responsibility of the role is to lead on all matters relating to the Mental Capacity Act (2005) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (2007).

Should the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards be replaced with an alternative legal framework (for example the Liberty Protection Safeguards - LPS), it is expected that the Professional Lead for MCA/DoLS will lead on, develop and drive forward the implementation of the LPS in partnership with multiagency partners.

This is a fantastic opportunity to further your career. There will be development opportunities in system leadership. We also have close links with universities, providing opportunities to access educational courses including relevant Master's courses.

This post is suitable for a Registered Nurse, Allied Health Professional, Social Worker.

Main duties of the job

Strategically lead on the development and implementation of the Trust statutory duties and requirements under the MCA and DoLS.

Lead on the strategic direction of practice in relation to the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), and work with internal and external partners to embed the principles of the Act.

Work across the Trust and with partner agencies to ensure that the principles, function and application of MCA/DoLS is embedded within all relevant policies and services in accordance with legislation

Provide clinical leadership and expert guidance on all matters relating to MCA/DoLS.

To be a subject expert in relation to the interface between the MCA and Mental Health Act in an acute hospital setting. Supporting clinical staff, often in a time-pressured environment, to implement the most appropriate legal framework to protect the rights of the Trust’s most vulnerable patients.

Provide expert MCA advice to support clinical staff undertaking safeguarding investigations, serious incident investigations or complaints for patients who lack capacity to make decisions regarding their care or treatment.

Lead on governance and assurance work relating to MCA and DoLS.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please find attached to the vacancy a detailed person specification and job description for further information about this role.