This session will explore how occupational therapists can make lawful, proportionate and person-centred decisions when considering restrictive equipment or adaptations for adults, children and young people. It draws on RCOT guidance on restrictive equipment and the recent Supreme Court clarification on deprivation of liberty, consent and the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

The session will consider whether blanket policies that prevent the recommendation or funding of certain equipment and adaptations risk undermining individual assessment, family life and a client’s opportunity to understand and express their own needs.