What is a Best Interests Assessor and how do you become one?

What is a Best Interests Assessor?

A Best Interests Assessor (BIA) is a professional who assesses and determines the best interests of individuals who lack the mental capacity to make specific decisions for themselves. This role is particularly relevant in the context of mental health and social care, often within the legal framework of mental capacity legislation.

What are the responsibilities of a Best Interests Assessor?

The responsibilities of a Best Interests Assessor can vary depending on the specific organisation they work for.

Some typical responsibilities of a Best Interests Assessor include:

• Evaluating whether individuals have the mental capacity to make specific decisions. This involves assessing their ability to understand, retain, and use information to make decisions.
• Considering and evaluating the best interests of individuals in situations where they lack capacity to make decisions, taking into account the person's wishes, feelings, beliefs, and values, as well as any relevant past and present preferences.
• Seeking input from family members, friends, and relevant professionals to gather a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s best interests.
• Ensuring that the assessment and decision-making process complies with relevant legal frameworks.
• Documenting the assessment process, including the factors considered, individuals consulted and the rationale behind the decisions made in the best interests of the individual.
• Engaging in ongoing professional development to enhance skills and knowledge in the field.
• Advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals who lack capacity.

What skills do I need to have?

Working as a Best Interests Assessor requires a combination of skills to effectively assess and determine the best interests of individuals who lack the ability to do so.

Some of the key skills that Best Interests Assessors need to have include:

• Critical thinking – The ability to analyse complex situations and make decisions based on a thorough understanding of the individuals circumstances and best interests.
• Communication skills – Clear and effective communication is essential when working with individuals lacking capacity, their families and healthcare professionals.
• Empathy and Sensitivity – The ability to empathise with the individual's situation and demonstrate sensitivity to their needs, feelings, and preferences.
• Assessment Skills - Competence in conducting thorough mental capacity assessments, considering cognitive abilities, understanding, retention, and decision-making capacity.
• Collaboration and Teamwork - Ability to work collaboratively with other professionals, such as healthcare providers, social workers, and legal professionals, to ensure a holistic approach to decision-making.
• Resilience - Ability to handle emotionally challenging situations and make decisions objectively, keeping the well-being of the individual at the forefront.
• Advocacy Skills - Advocating for the rights and interests of individuals who lack capacity, ensuring their voice is heard and considered in the decision-making process.

How can I become a Best Interests Assessor?

Becoming a Best Interests Assessor involves a combination of education, relevant experience, and acquiring specific skills.

Typically you will need to:

• Obtain a relevant qualification in Social Work, such as a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
• Work in social work or a related field to gain practical experience. This experience is essential for understanding the complexities of mental health issues and the challenges faced by individuals who may lack capacity.
• Register with a professional body such as Social Work England or the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• Complete a Best Interests Assessor course.
• Engage in continuing professional development to stay updated on changes in legislation, best practices, and advancements in the field.

Looking for a Best Interests Assessor position?

Here at Archer Resourcing, we have unique Best Interests Assessor opportunities across the UK.

Click here to view our latest vacancies or call us today on 01473 939670 and a member of our Social Care team will be happy to discuss the roles we have available.