Purpose of the service

The purpose of the Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) service is to help vulnerable people who are facing important decisions made by the National Health Service and Local Authorities about serious medical treatment and changes of residence.

How it works

We, and our health partners, have a duty to consult the IMCA in decisions involving people who have no family or friends.

When making important decisions about serious medical treatment or change of accommodation for vulnerable people an IMCA must be appointed to represent the individual, if there is no one else to support them.

Regulations passed in the 2006 extended the powers of local authorities and the NHS to instruct IMCAs in certain cases involving care reviews and adult protection cases. The IMCA's advice must be taken into account in the decision.