Provision of an Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA) Service

Velindre University NHS Trust on behalf of Cardiff and Vale UHB, Aneurin Bevan UHB, Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB, Swansea Bay UHB, Hywel Dda UHB, Betsi Cadwaladr UHB invited suitably qualified organisations to express an interest for provision of an Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy Service (IMCA). The purpose of the IMCA service is to help particularly vulnerable people who lack the capacity to make important decisions about serious medical treatment and changes of accommodation. It is available to those who have no family or friends whom it would be appropriate to consult about these decisions. The service includes adult protection cases (POVAs) and care reviews. IMCA also has a role in the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLs) process. An IMCA may be instructed by the Supervisory Body to support a person for whom an authorisation is being sought; or to undertake the role of the Relevant Person's Representative, or to provide assistance to the relevant person and their representative in exercising their rights under the legislation.