Knowledge and Confidence of the Mental Capacity Act (2005) in a sample of Clinical Psychologists in East Anglia

Palmer, Yasmin, Nabirinde, Rachel and Beazley, Peter (2026) Knowledge and Confidence of the Mental Capacity Act (2005) in a sample of Clinical Psychologists in East Anglia. Journal of Adult Protection. ISSN 1466-8203 (In Press)

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Abstract

The Mental Capacity Act (2005; MCA) entered into force in 2007, some 18 years ago. Since its implementation, several authors have identified gaps in knowledge and confidence in different professional groups. There has, however, been very little research considering this question in relation to Clinical Psychologists, and many wider surveys are now dated. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and confidence in working with the MCA in a group of practicing Clinical Psychologists. A bespoke survey assessed knowledge and confidence in key domains of the MCA specific to the role of a Clinical Psychologist, including a scenario-based vignette and qualitative responses to address additional training needs. A total of 58 HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologists responded to the survey. In the scenario Clinical Psychologists demonstrated good knowledge of applying principles of the MCA to a psychology-specific scenario. However, confidence seemed lower, and not all psychologists considered the MCA as very important to their work. Research limitations include using a bespoke survey and likely self-selection bias which may mean knowledge and confidence is over-represented. A number of different areas for potential training were identified by the participants. Whilst various studies (Marshall and Sprung, 2016; Scott et al., 2020) have explored the knowledge and confidence of the MCA in different professional groups, there has been limited reported data on the knowledge and confidence of a psychological workforce.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Note regarding Author Accepted Manuscript: Emerald allows authors to deposit their AAM under the Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial International Licence 4.0 (CC BY-NC 4.0). To do this, the deposit must clearly state that the AAM is deposited under this licence and that any reuse is allowed in accordance with the terms outlined by the licence.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	clinical psychologist,mental capacity act,capacity,safeguarding,confidence,knowledge,health professions(all),law,clinical psychology,sdg 16 - peace, justice and strong institutions,sdg 3 - good health and well-being ,/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/3600
Depositing User:	LivePure Connector
Date Deposited:	19 Feb 2026 10:30
Last Modified:	25 Feb 2026 00:55
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/101981
DOI:	10.1108/JAP-11-2025-0040

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