This is an exciting opportunity for two permanent Advanced or Specialist Practitioner /Mental Capacity Act Advisors to support the MCA team. One is a full time post of 37 hours a week, the second is part time at 30 hours.
The MCA team will be going through a period of change and development during the next 6 months and we are looking for motivated people who have an advanced knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act, alongside an ability to read and interpret case law and changes to legal thinking in this dynamic space.
You will be required to be an experienced Best Interest Assessor who also has an advanced and up to date knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and other relevant legislation including the Mental Health Act 1983 and the Care Act 2014.
A sound understanding of safeguarding is also essential. You will be required to scrutinize the work of others, so you need to be legally literate, a competent proof-reader and able to provide an educational and supportive role to colleagues both within Dorset Council and with other partner agencies.
You will be expected to give advice both on the phone and via email, you may be asked to attend multi-agency risk management meetings, peer forums and legal meetings representing Dorset Council. You will need to be willing and competent to write and deliver training both online and on a face-to-face basis, as well as provide peer support and supervision to BIAs. As the team is undergoing a period of transformation you will need to be flexible and willing to adapt as the role becomes defined through the process. A requirement to work in the office base at County Hall for two days per week is expected.
We are looking for forward thinking and motivated individuals who enjoy working with the Mental Capacity Act, and who see that this is legislation which can and does change the lives of vulnerable people. A willingness to skilfully challenge other professionals as well as maintaining a high standard of personal learning is essential.