Decision-making is a natural part of life, and most of us rely on the people we trust when we need to talk something through, weigh up options, or feel more confident about the choices we make.

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The Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 recognises this reality. It does not seek to interfere with the ordinary ways that people with intellectual disabilities may wish to receive support from their families or trusted supporters. Instead, the law aims to protect a person’s right to make their own decisions and, where they wish, to have the support of others to help them do so.

However, this can sometimes be an area where people are not fully informed. When there is a lack of understanding about how supported decision-making works, situations can arise where a person’s rights are not fully respected — including their right to involve their family members and trusted supporters in decisions about their lives. For families, supporters, and professionals alike, understanding these rights is essential to ensuring that the person remains at the centre of decision-making.

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This guide aims to explain the role that families can play within supported decision-making. It is intended to help families, supporters, and practitioners better understand how the law supports a person’s autonomy while recognising the important and valued role that families often have in supporting people to make their own decisions.