Mark Whitehead 02 April 2019

Protections for people who lack mental capacity must be 'robust', MPs say

A new definition of what constitutes 'liberty' will be included in the Mental Capacity Act to help protect vulnerable people, the Government has announced.

It follows the introduction of a new law last year aimed at simplifying Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLs).

Harriet Harman, chair of the parliamentary human rights committee said protections for people who lack mental capacity must be 'robust and proportionate'.

In a statement the Government said it was attempting to introduce a definition of deprivation of liberty into the Bill, as the committee had recommended.

But following disagreement between the House of Commons and the Lords, the Government now proposed to remove the definition from the Bill and include it in codes of practice under the Mental Capacity Act.

Ms Harman said: 'The protections for people who lack mental capacity must be both robust and proportionate: we need to ensure that people’s right not to be arbitrarily deprived of their liberty is fully protected.

'But any system must not be excessively bureaucratic not least because resources must not be diverted from vital care into unnecessary bureaucracy.

'We welcome where the Government has listened to the Committee and proposed some changes to the Bill.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Approved Mental Health Professional

Durham County Council
Grade 12 - £44,075 - £48,226
The team operates across the County working days 8am-8pm and works in close partnership with colleagues in EDT to provide a robust 24 hour service. W Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

First Contact Assessment Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 6 £28,142 - £31,022
WHAT IS INVOLVED? Sometimes families in County Durham can face adversity and need support to ensure their children are safe, are thriving. Our First Newton Aycliffe
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Social Worker - Families First (First Contact/MASH)

Durham County Council
Grade 11 £40,777 - £45,091
Are you an experienced social worker who wants to make a real difference to children, young people and families, making sure they get the right suppor Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Waste Recycling Non HGV Driver Chargehand

Durham County Council
Grade 6 £28,142 - £31,022 per annum
Are you an experienced driver with strong leadership skills? We’re looking for a Non-HGV Driver Chargehand to join our Waste and Recycling team. In t Stanley
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Waste Recycling HGV Driver Chargehand

Durham County Council
Grade 7 £30,024 - £33,699 per annum
Are you an experienced HGV driver looking for a role where you can make a real difference in your community? We’re seeking a proactive and reliable i Stanley
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner