# What is known about the design, delivery and implementation of mental capacity training in care homes?: a scoping review

## TL;DR

This review explores how mental capacity training is designed and delivered in care homes, finding that a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective and more research is needed.

## Contribution

The study identifies gaps in mental capacity training design and emphasizes the need for tailored approaches to improve care home staff training.

## Key findings

- A standardized approach to mental capacity training does not meet diverse resident and staff needs.
- Understanding relationships between training domains can enhance training effectiveness.
- There is limited research on mental capacity training design and delivery in care homes.

## Abstract

To provide high-quality care to people living in care homes, it is crucial that care home staff possess the knowledge and skills necessary to apply the principles of mental capacity legislation. In order to achieve this, training must be delivered and implemented. This review aimed to identify what is known about the design, delivery and implementation of mental capacity-related education and training in care homes. A scoping review was conducted in line with Joanna Briggs Institute guidance, and reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR. A total of 3055 records were retrieved by the search and independently screened by two reviewers. A total of 14 papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Results were synthesised and mapped to the TIDieR checklist. The results highlighted two key factors. Firstly, a standardised one-size-fits-all approach to mental capacity legislation training fails to take account of the diverse needs of both care home residents and staff. Secondly, understanding the relationships between these domains can help overcome barriers and enhance facilitators, leading to more effective training outcomes. The review highlights a knowledge gap, with limited research considering the design and delivery of mental capacity related training. This limits the development of consistent and effective training across the sector. Future research should consider issues of diversity among care home staff or residents, to ensure the appropriateness and applicability of training for all those who receive it.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-025-06476-6.