Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy

Matrix provides the IMCA service for Berkshire. An IMCA should be instructed when the NHS/Local Authority is making a decision about:
1. Serious medical treatment
2. A change in accommodation (more than 28 days in hospital/8 weeks in a care home) And the person lacks the capacity to make that specific decision themselves and has no family or friends who are ‘appropriate to consult’.
You may also be able to make a referral:
3. If a care review of the person’s current accommodation is taking place, and the person lacks capacity and has no friends or family who are ‘appropriate to consult’.
4. If a decision is being made under safeguarding adults procedures, where the person is either the victim or alleged perpetrator, regardless of whether there are family or friends involved.
5. If a Supervisory Body (Local Authority or Primary Care Trust) receives an application for a Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) authorisation from the Managing Authority (usually a care home or hospital) and the person lacks capacity and has no friends or family who are ‘appropriate to consult’.
Who can make a referral?
Anyone can make a referral to the IMCA service, however the IMCA can only become involved once the decision maker has instructed them. The decision maker is the NHS or Local Authority (usually a Doctor or Social Worker) proposing the serious medical treatment or change in accommodation.
What will the IMCA do?
The IMCA represents the person who lacks capacity in the decision making process. The IMCA will meet with the person and speak with others involved in the person’s life. They may also examine relevant records and may suggest alternative courses of action. The IMCA summarises their findings into a report, which the decision maker must consider before making a final decision.

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contact DETAILS

2 The Green
North Waltham
Hampshire
RG25 2BQ

Tel: 01256 398928
Fax: 01256 398929

Please note that no services are delivered from this address. Click on the relevant service tab to contact an individual service.