To help you learn and develop, we've launched four new e-learning modules around the concept of capacity.

Building on your existing knowledge as you progress throughout your career is an essential part of growing as a healthcare professional.

As part of our commitment to help you expand your ongoing learning and development, we've added to our comprehensive list of e-learning modules with four modules focusing on capacity.

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All the modules are available to MDU members for free. They can be completed in your own time at a pace that suits you, and each offers a certificate of completion when you've finished to add to your e-portfolio.

Introduction to Mental Capacity Act (10 mins)

  • An overview of the Mental Capacity Act and how it may be applied in practice.
  • A summary of the five principles set out in the Act.
  • Differences in application between the Mental Capacity Act and the Mental Health Act.

Assessing best interests (20 mins)

  • The concept of best interests.
  • Who decides what's in the person’s best interests.
  • Defining the decision.
  • Common factors that must be considered when deciding what's in the best interests of someone lacking capacity.
  • Organising a best interests meeting.
  • When and how to involve the courts in a best interests dispute.

Assessing capacity (20 mins)

  • The two-stage test for capacity.
  • How to approach a capacity assessment.
  • Common dilemmas that arise in capacity assessments, including when a patient won't engage with the assessment, or when you're asked to assess capacity for decisions outside your area of expertise such as complex financial decisions.

LPAs, deputies and the Court of Protection (20 mins)

  • Types of LPA, why it's important for health staff to clarify what type of LPA is being relied upon, and what is and isn't covered by it.
  • Practical aspects of making and using LPAs that are helpful for clinicians to be familiar with.
  • Situations where an attorney can act in isolation, but where they will be unable to make a health decision for the donor.
  • The roles of the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) and the Court of Protection (CoP).
  • Types of deputies and their responsibilities.
  • Scenarios to see how these legal mechanisms can work in real life.
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To see all our available online and in-person courses, check out the Learn and Develop section of our website.

This page was correct at publication on 26/02/2026. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.