Catholic Church > Legislation and Public Policy > The Mental Capacity Act and 'Living Wills'
The new Mental Capacity Act, in force from October 2007, has a number of far-reaching implications and will affect anyone unable to make decisions for themselves. To assist the Catholic community, the Bishops’ Conference has produced a short guide, which has just been published by the Catholic Truth Society. It provides practical and accessible guidance to those concerned about aspects of this new law.
The text of the Guide can be downloaded in two sizes:
The Mental Capacity Act and 'Living Wills' - a Practical Guide for Catholics
pdf 308.75KB (56 x A4 pages)
The Mental Capacity Act and 'Living Wills' - a Practical Guide for Catholics
pdf.288.84kB (29 x A5 pages)
To brief and inform moral theologians, priests and interested healthcare professionals about the Act, Archbishop Peter Smith and Professor David Jones held three study days in April and May 2008.
There are now two useful resources available to download from these informative days.
The first is a 30-minute mp3 of Prof. Jones unpacking the Mental Capacity Act and its implications. The second is a useful Powerpoint presentation:
Prof. David Jones on the Mental Capacity Act (mono mp3)
Prof. David Jones Mental Capacity Act presentation (powerpoint)
Note: You will need to have Microsoft Powerpoint installed on your computer to view the .ppt file above
Order form for distribution to groups:
Mental Capacity Act and 'Living Wills' - A Practical Guide for Catholics