The Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) service helps support people who are incapacitous and have no friends or family to make important decisions for them. In relation to some decisions, such as those about serious medical treatment or moving accommodation (defined on p. 65 and p. 66 respectively), there is a legal requirement on NHS bodies and local authorities to appoint an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate to represent an individual unable to make their own decision if there is no one else to support them (statutory advocacy under the Mental Capacity Act).

These powers have been extended by regulations authorising the NHS or local authority to instruct Independent Mental Capacity Advocates in certain cases involving care reviews and adult protection procedures (‘safeguarding adults procedures’).

Put more formally, Independent Mental Capacity Advocates help safeguard the rights of people who are unable to make a decision about a long-term move or serious medical matter and have no one, except paid staff, willing or able to help them. The decision maker must take an advocate's opinion into account.

Local authorities commission Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy services, and responsible bodies (the NHS and local authorities) have a duty to make sure that there are sufficient advocates to be called on when needed. However, all advocates are trained and provided by independent organisations.

The advocate service is provided for any person aged 16 years or older. Referral arrangements vary locally, but referrals can be made by telephone or email. At the time of the referral:

In adult protection cases, a person with no one else to support them is entitled to an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate if the decision maker is satisfied that the person will benefit.