MCA two-stage test walkthrough

Practise the Mental Capacity Act sequence: support first, then the diagnostic and functional stages, with recording prompts at each outcome.

Educational aid only. These walkthroughs are simplified educational aids. They do not cover every circumstance and are not legal or clinical advice. Always follow your organisation’s procedures and the current official guidance, and ask your manager or safeguarding lead when unsure.

This walkthrough rehearses the order of thinking the Mental Capacity Act 2005 requires: identify the decision, support the person to make it themselves, and only then apply the two-stage test. Each outcome explains what to record and what happens next.

Use it for training, supervision discussions, or a quick refresher before a real assessment — then read the full Mental Capacity Act and Capacity Assessments topics.

Check the source

Mental Capacity Act 2005 (opens in new tab)legislation.gov.uk
MCA Code of Practice (GOV.UK) (opens in new tab)gov.uk
NICE NG108: decision-making and mental capacity (opens in new tab)nice.org.uk

Reminder: Educational reference only. Nothing on this site is legal, clinical or professional advice. Guidance changes: always check the current official source before acting. Full disclaimer.