Description
Section 47 of the National Assistance Act 1948 (NAA 1948) allows for compulsory care of elderly people, living in insanitary conditions, who are not receiving care they need, but are refusing to accept assistance when offered. Local authorities are responsible for the exercise of powers contained in Section 47, subject to medical recommendations from a Health Authority. A Consultant in Communicable Disease Control, an officer of the health Authority, tenders such advice as a proper officer* – a designated officer. The use of the Act has declined, but remains on the statue books. This paper provides the various elements of the Code of Practice, and clear guidelines in dealing with referrals under Section 47 and compulsory removal to a place of safety.
