An adult care review is a planned check of someone’s care and support plan. Its purpose is straightforward: to make sure the plan still fits the person’s life, still meets their needs, and still keeps them safe. Under section 27 of the Care Act 2014, local authorities have an ongoing legal duty to keep care … Read more
One of the most common worries I hear from families is “Have we left it too late?” They’ve noticed their mum struggling to follow conversations, or their dad repeating the same questions over and over, and now they’re wondering whether it’s still legally possible to put a Lasting Power of Attorney in place. The honest … Read more
GP, Local Authority, or Independent Assessor: Who Should Carry Out a Mental Capacity Assessment? It’s one of the most common questions I hear, particularly from families who’ve suddenly found themselves trying to navigate the Mental Capacity Act 2005 for the first time. “Can our GP do this?” or “Isn’t this something the council should sort … Read more
When a family member loses the ability to make certain decisions for themselves, it can feel like the ground shifts beneath you. Suddenly, you are in rooms full of professionals using terms you have never heard before, and decisions about someone you love are being made in ways that can feel rushed or even predetermined. … Read more
Most families come to me with this exact question. And if you’re asking it, you’re probably already paying attention to something that matters. That’s not overreacting. Here’s how to think it through. Key points at a glance: You’re Not Overreacting. But Let’s Think This Through. You’ve noticed something. Maybe Mum is repeating herself more. Maybe … Read more
If something doesn’t feel right about your loved one’s care, it can be hard to know what to do next. Is it a complaint? A safeguarding concern? Or are you simply worried you’re overreacting? This post explains the real difference between poor care and safeguarding, what the law says, and the practical steps you can … Read more
Mental capacity assessments are often central to legally complex and sensitive decisions. Solicitors need assessments that are clear, fair, and capable of withstanding scrutiny. My work focuses on independent mental capacity assessments that evidence proper process, respect the rights of the individual, and support sound decision making in legal proceedings. The emphasis is always on … Read more
Mental capacity assessments often sit at the centre of legally sensitive decisions. They are relied upon by solicitors, deputies, local authorities, and the Court of Protection to evidence that a process has been lawful, proportionate, and fair. When assessments are poorly evidenced or procedurally weak, they are vulnerable to challenge. This can delay proceedings, increase … Read more
Being told that a mental capacity assessment is needed can feel unsettling. Many people worry that decisions are about to be taken out of their hands, or that their voice will not matter. A capacity assessment does not remove rights. It exists to protect them. The law is clear that the person being assessed must … Read more
People seeking asylum or protection under human rights law are often asked to explain deeply personal experiences. These experiences are not always easy to describe in words alone. Psychological assessments can help by providing clear, professional evidence that explains how trauma, fear, or mental health difficulties affect a person’s ability to cope, recall events, or … Read more
Get in touch with Ashley at AJH Social Work today to schedule your initial consultation.
