What should a social worker do when clients lack the capacity to provide informed consent?

When clients lack the capacity to provide informed consent, seeking permission from an appropriate third party is essential for several reasons. Informed consent is a fundamental principle in social work and other helping professions, ensuring that clients understand the nature of the services being provided, the risks involved, and their right to withdraw consent at any time.

When a client is unable to give informed consent due to factors such as mental illness, developmental disabilities, or temporary incapacity, the social worker must look for alternatives to respect the client's autonomy and best interests. By seeking permission from an appropriate third party—such as a legal guardian, family member, or another individual who has the authority to make decisions on behalf of the client—the social worker aligns with ethical standards that emphasize protection and advocacy for vulnerable populations. This approach helps ensure that the client receives the necessary support while respecting their rights and dignity.

Proceeding with services without further action would disregard the ethical obligation to ensure informed consent and might lead to potential harm to the client. Encouraging clients to make decisions anyway is not advisable when they lack the capacity to do so, as this can undermine their well-being and lead to uninformed or harmful decisions. Delaying services until capacity is confirmed may not be in the client's best interest,