This module offers health and social care professionals the opportunity to develop and enhance their professional competence in relation to working with people whose mental capacity is in question and understanding the application of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. The teaching and learning involved seeks to develop understanding not just of mental capacity as an area of specialist knowledge and skills, but of the various professional roles and distinct contributions of those within the multi-disciplinary environment and the collaborative nature of these roles needed to achieve a holistic assessment of the individual. Key areas of focus will be the Act’s framework for assessing capacity and making best interest decisions on behalf of those unable to make decisions for themselves and understanding the concepts of capacity and best interests and their contested nature. You will develop knowledge and skills that will enhance your ability to evidence your decision making in relation to capacity. You will improve your ability to critically ‘manage’ the balance between autonomy and risk for individuals with their professional accountability and duties of care. Building knowledge of the implementation of the Mental Capacity Act in a practice context. Human rights and ethical decision making in the practice context will be a key focus, along with working collaboratively with carers, advocates and other professionals.
Award Type Single 20 Credit Module - 20 Academic Credits which if you are a Social Worker may be used to contribute toward the PG Cert Professional Social Work Practice.
Delivery Method Classroom based on campus
Mode of Study
Part time
Location
Coach Lane Campus
Start September 2025
Duration
5 teaching days and self directed learning
The module will help you develop a sophisticated understanding of mental capacity and its many facets. These include the legal framework governing human rights, mental capacity. deprivation of liberty, and how the Mental Capacity Act interfaces with mental health and children’s law. Teaching and learning will explore the research evidence base in relation to the Mental Capacity Act, models of mental capacity and the complex nature of decision making. You will learn and demonstrate your ability to apply research-based evidence and theoretical approaches to strengthen collaboration and problem-solving skills within practice. You will also gain insight into different professional roles and how to undertake your role within different contexts. The assessment is designed to enable you to reflect upon and evaluate your own practice and demonstrate expertise in your specialist area.
This module will use a range of teaching and learning strategies to support learning. Lead lectures will be offered by specialist researchers, practitioners and academics to extend your initial qualifying knowledge. Perspectives of those will lived experience will be featured prominently throughout teaching. Group discussions and directed learning will be used to relate knowledge to your particular professional context and reflect on your own practice and values. Within group work sessions you will draw on your own professional practice creating an authentic learning experience and providing the opportunity for reflection on practice. You will engage in peer supported learning by engaging in shared directed learning tasks which will help you prepare for the summative assessment for the module. Seminar activities will also support this process providing extensive opportunities for formative feedback from academic staff and peers and support a structured approach to completing elements of the summative assessment. You will engage in critical analysis of your own development that will focus on enhancing your skills and knowledge. Undertaking and successfully completing the module will enable you to develop and use a high level of independent study skills to extend your practice and intellectual development in relation to your role. Its structure will support you to engage in independent learning. You will also make use of library and electronic resources that can aid work-based learning.
This module can be undertaken by a range of qualified professionals e.g social workers, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists.
Applicants without a professional qualification can still apply if they have a degree and are working in an environment that will provide them with appropriate experience to complete the assessment.
Knowledge and understanding:
1. Critically review current legal and policy guidance on mental capacity assessment and best interest decision making.
2. Demonstrate critical application of relevant knowledge, research, and evidence in relation to mental capacity.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Critically evaluate models and theoretical perspectives of mental capacity alongside evidence of best practice with people (professionals, service users and carers) who are involved in mental capacity procedures.
4. Apply skills, appropriate to work role, in assessing and/or intervening in situations in which mental capacity issues and best interest decisions arise...
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Analyse practice dilemmas involving protection and control while promoting independence and choice.
Programme Lead Dr Carole Southall carole.southall@northumbria.ac.uk
Module lead Dr Carole Southall carole.southall@northumbria.ac.uk
£814
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