FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Straightforward answers about mental capacity assessments and how Carebuz works. Can’t find what you need? Email us and we’ll help.
About assessments
What is a mental capacity assessment?
An assessment of whether a person can make a specific decision at a specific time, carried out under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. It looks at whether they can understand, retain and weigh up the information relevant to the decision, and communicate their choice.
A person can have capacity for some decisions and not others. Assessments are often needed for legal, financial or health-related matters, such as a Lasting Power of Attorney, property decisions or general welfare.
When might someone need one?
Common reasons include:
- making or changing a will
- setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney
- applying to the Court of Protection to become a deputy (COP3)
- decisions about property, finances or gifts
- decisions about care and where to live
- medical treatment
Who carries out the assessment?
A professionally registered assessor (a social worker, nurse, occupational therapist, psychologist or doctor) matched to the decision. Assessments of capacity to make a will are always carried out by a doctor.
Do assessments take place in person?
Yes. Our assessors visit the person wherever they live: at home, in a care home or in hospital. Online assessments are possible on request where they’re appropriate.
Can you guarantee the result?
No. The assessor’s conclusion is independent and based on the evidence. Our fee is the same whatever the outcome.
What if my relative doesn’t want to be assessed?
Nobody can be made to take part. Our assessors are skilled at putting people at ease, and we’ll talk to you beforehand about how best to approach it.
What makes Carebuz different?
We combine a thoughtful, person-centred approach with clear communication and reliable results: the right professional for each decision, urgent visits within 7 days, and one point of contact from your first email to the signed report.
Booking and timings
How do I request an assessment?
Email us at info@carebuz.com, or use our request form, which writes the email for you. Tell us who the assessment is for, the decision involved, where they live and how urgent it is.
We’ll reply within one working day, and the same day for urgent requests.
How quickly can you help?
Urgent visits take place within 7 days, and standard visits within 21 days. Reports follow within 3 to 5 working days of the visit.
Do you cover my area?
We currently focus on London and the South East, and can often help further afield. Just ask.
How can I contact you?
Email info@carebuz.com or call +44 20 4514 2998. We aim to reply within one working day.
Costs and payment
How much does an assessment cost?
Every case is different, so we give you a fixed quote before anything is booked, based on the decision, the type of professional needed and how urgent it is. There are no hidden costs.
How do I pay?
Families pay when booking. Professional clients are invoiced on delivery of the report, with 30-day payment terms.
Request an assessment
Tell us what’s needed. We’ll reply within one working day.
Email us with who the assessment is for, the decision involved, where they live and how urgent it is. We’ll come back to you with a fixed quote, the same day for urgent requests.
- info@carebuz.com
- Phone
- +44 20 4514 2998