Course Description:

This module can be taken as standalone course or as part of the MSc Advanced Social Work Practice.

This taught course enables students to develop comprehensive understanding of, and the ability to apply:

• Legislations, national and local policy guidance, adult safeguarding law and policies, relevant case law.
• The principles and processes involved in assessing an individual’s capacity to make decisions.
• Concepts of risk and risk assessment in the context of deprivation of liberty.
• The concept of ‘best interest’, the DolS assessment process, the role of BIA assessment and the role of key stakeholders such as the MH Assessor and IMCA,
• The scope of recommendations a BIA can make.

The programme(s) this module can be linked to/contribute towards:

HSASWPM - MSc Advanced Social Work Practice

Why choose this course?

Our BIA course has been comprehensively updated to align with the new BIA Standards (July 2024). This means you will be supported within a high-quality learning environment designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to become a registered Best Interests Assessor. The course offers a reflective, practice-focused curriculum aimed to meet your individual learning needs while supporting your work–study–life balance. It  is delivered by dedicated team of BIA experts, including experienced BIA practitioners, lecturers, and PWLE.

Course Aims:

The course is designed enable candidates to become registered Best Interest Assessors, meeting the requirements of the role as set out in relevant legislations and the six BIA Capabilities.

Where is the course taught?

The course will be mainly delivered online, with optional group and one-to-one support sessions available in person  at the University of Hertfordshire’s campus sites.

Assessment Details:

Course work - PASS/FAIL:

Record of evidence - Documentation of two practice observations involving a Best Interests Assessment (BIA) or a community Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) assessment. 

Coursework - 100%:

A 2000-word essay - A comprehensive analysis of the key practice issues identified during the two observations. This assignment will require critical reflection and evaluation of the observed practices, drawing on relevant legislation, policies, values and ethics, professional frameworks, and theories.

Formative assessment opportunities will be provided.

Learning Outcomes:

Successful students will typically:

• Be able to conduct evidence-based DoLS assessment and provide well-rationalised decisions/recommendations that critically reflect and apply relevant legislations, research, and case law.
• Be able to apply professional values and ethics to address issues of diversity, actively promoting the rights, dignity and self-determination of the relevant person.
• Be able to articulate the DoLS process and the BIA’s role; communicate effectively and confidently during DoLS or mental capacity assessment, engaging with relevant people and offering them support throughout the process.
• Be able to balance the promotion of choice and autonomy with the need to assess risks and ensure proportionality in decision making.
• Be able to assess and manage risk effectively, taking necessary action when an application to the Court of Protection is needed.

What our students say:

“This course was incredibly well-structured and thought-provoking. It gave me the confidence and knowledge I need to carry out the BIA role effectively.” (a BIA graduate in June 2024). 

“The support from the course team was outstanding. They were approachable and responsive.” (a BIA graduate in June 2024).

“The course has strengthened my understanding of the legal and ethical frameworks underpinning best interest decisions. I feel much more confident navigating complex cases.” (a BIA graduate in January 2025). 

“Being taught by experienced professionals who are still practicing as BIAs was a real bonus. Their insight added huge value to the learning experience.” (a BIA graduate in January 2025).

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