Question 1

What is a mental capacity assessment?

Accepted Answer

A mental capacity assessment evaluates whether a person can understand, retain, weigh up and communicate decisions about finances, health, welfare, or legal matters, under the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

Question 2

Who can carry out a mental capacity assessment?

Accepted Answer

Qualified professionals such as social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, or nurses can carry out assessments. For legal use, independence is vital.

Question 3

When would someone need a mental capacity assessment?

Accepted Answer

An assessment is needed when there are doubts about a person’s ability to make specific decisions, for example making a will, selling property, or appointing a Lasting Power of Attorney.

Question 4

How much does a mental capacity assessment cost?

Accepted Answer

Our standard fee is £496 plus travel. Dual assessments are £767. Urgent or complex reports may vary in price. Quotes are always provided in advance.

Question 5

What is a COP3 form?

Accepted Answer

The COP3 is a Court of Protection form used to evidence a person’s mental capacity when applying for deputyship. It must be completed by a qualified assessor.

Question 6

Can a COP3 assessment be done remotely?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many COP3 assessments can be carried out by video call, though in-person visits are recommended for complex or contested cases.

Question 7

What is a retrospective capacity assessment?

Accepted Answer

A retrospective assessment considers whether someone had capacity at a past point in time. They are often used in will disputes or probate cases.

Question 8

What is a PA14 probate medical certificate?

Accepted Answer

A PA14 is a medical certificate confirming capacity before death, required when applying for probate if a deputyship order was in place.

Question 9

What is a testamentary capacity assessment?

Accepted Answer

This assessment determines whether a person has the mental capacity to make or amend a will, following the Banks v Goodfellow legal test.

Question 10

What is a capacity to gift assessment?

Accepted Answer

This checks whether a person understands the nature and consequences of giving away money or assets. It is often used to prevent disputes or protect against financial abuse.

Question 11

Do you assess capacity for property and financial contracts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we assess whether a person understands, weighs up, and communicates decisions relating to financial contracts, property sales or transfers.

Question 12

Do you assess capacity to marry?

Accepted Answer

Yes, these assessments determine whether an individual understands the rights and obligations of marriage and can consent freely.

Question 13

What is an EHCP appeal?

Accepted Answer

An Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP) appeal challenges a local authority’s refusal to assess, issue or amend a child’s support plan. We provide assessments and guidance for appeals.

Question 14

Can Nellie Supports help with social care assessments?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide comprehensive social care needs assessments, care planning, brokerage, and case management support for individuals and families.

Question 15

How quickly can I book an assessment?

Accepted Answer

Appointments are usually available within a few days. Urgent assessments can be arranged within 48 hours.

Question 16

How long will it take to receive my report?

Accepted Answer

Standard reports are completed within 5–10 working days. Urgent turnaround is available on request.

Question 17

Do you cover the whole of the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide nationwide coverage across England and Wales, with in-person and remote options.

Question 18

Can family members attend the assessment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we welcome family involvement where appropriate, unless it risks influencing the person being assessed.

Est. 2019

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