Responding to Client Feedback: Introducing Our Full Day MCA & DoLS Practical Training Programme

At Training and Assessment in Healthcare Ltd, we believe the best training develops through listening to the people delivering care every day.

Over recent months, we have received increasing feedback from clients, managers and frontline staff that although Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) training is essential, many staff still leave sessions feeling anxious about “getting it wrong” when applying the legislation in practice.

This concern is completely understandable.

The Mental Capacity Act, best interest decision-making and DoLS processes can feel complex and, at times, overwhelming. Staff are often worried about:

• Making the wrong decision

• Completing documentation incorrectly

• Understanding fluctuating capacity

• Knowing when a deprivation of liberty may be occurring

• Applying the legislation confidently in real-life situations

• Balancing duty of care with individual rights and freedoms

For many teams, the theory alone is not enough.

Listening to What Our Clients Needed

Following discussions with care providers, nurses, managers and support teams across dementia, learning disability, autism, neurological and mental health services, one message became very clear:

Staff wanted more practical learning opportunities and time to apply the legislation to realistic scenarios.

In response, we have now redeveloped our existing Mental Capacity Act & Liberty Protection Safeguards course from a half day awareness session into a full day interactive programme with a strong practical focus.

What Is New?

Our updated course now includes:

• Extended discussion around real-life challenges faced in care settings

• Practical scenario-based learning throughout the day

• Guided best interest decision-making exercises

• Support with understanding documentation and legal responsibilities

• A dedicated scenario-based DoLS practical activity

The new practical element allows learners to work through realistic situations in a safe and supportive environment, helping them build confidence in recognising and responding appropriately to potential deprivation of liberty situations.

Building Confidence, Not Fear

One of the biggest barriers to effective MCA and DoLS practice is fear.

Fear of causing harm.Fear of legal consequences.Fear of making the wrong judgement.

Our aim is not simply to deliver legislation updates, but to help staff feel supported, informed and confident in applying the law appropriately within their role.

By incorporating practical exercises and group discussion, learners can ask questions openly, explore decision-making processes and gain reassurance around their professional responsibilities.

Why This Matters

Good MCA and DoLS practice is not about paperwork alone. It is about protecting people’s rights, dignity and freedoms whilst ensuring safe and compassionate care.

When staff understand the “why” behind the legislation and feel confident applying it in practice, outcomes improve for everyone:

• Individuals receiving care

• Families and advocates

• Care teams and managers

• Organisations and services

Supporting the Health and Social Care Workforce

As legislation and expectations continue to evolve, it is more important than ever that training remains relevant, practical and meaningful.

We are proud to continue adapting our courses in response to client feedback and sector needs, ensuring our learners receive training that genuinely supports day-to-day practice.

For further information about our new full day Mental Capacity Act & Liberty Protection Safeguards course, please contact our team:📧 training@tihcuk.com📞 01603 611107

We look forward to supporting your teams to feel more confident, competent and empowered in this important area of care practice.