New act to help people with mental incapacity

The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act is to come into force
on 2 April, Jim Wallace, justice minister, has announced. As one of
the first pieces of legislation to be passed by the Scottish
executive, the act introduces safeguards to the welfare, finances
and property of people over 16 years who might otherwise not have
their interests represented, and gives new powers to carers. The
new powers of the act, generally welcomed by all care
organisations, will be widely publicised. Wallace said: “We are
working with other bodies concerned to raise awareness and provide
information about the act.”