be insured in respect of any liabilities that might arise in connection with carrying out the assessment; and

satisfy the supervisory body5 that he or she has such insurance.

an applied knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and related Code of Practice6; and

the ability to keep appropriate records and to provide clear and reasoned reports in accordance with legal requirements and good practice.

an enhanced criminal record certificate issued under section 113B of the Police Act 19977 (enhanced criminal record certificates); or

if the purpose for which the certificate is required is not one prescribed under subsection (2) of that section, a criminal record certificate issued pursuant to section 113A of that Act8 (criminal record certificates).

approved under section 12 of the Mental Health Act 198310; or

a registered medical practitioner who the supervisory body is satisfied has at least three years post registration experience in the diagnosis or treatment of mental disorder.

an approved mental health professional;

a social worker registered with the General Social Care Council;

a first level nurse, registered in Sub-Part 1 of the Nurses’ Part of the Register maintained under article 5 of the Nursing and Midwifery Order 200113;

an occupational therapist registered in Part 6 of the register maintained under article 5 of the Health Professions Order 200114; or

a chartered psychologist who is listed in the British Psychological Society’s Register of Chartered Psychologists and who holds a relevant practising certificate issued by that Society15.

is not suspended from the register or list relevant to the person’s profession mentioned in paragraph (2);

has at least two years post registration experience in one of the professions mentioned in paragraph (2);

has successfully completed training that has been approved by the Secretary of State16 to be a best interests assessor;

except in the 12 month period beginning with the date the person has successfully completed the training referred to in sub-paragraph (c), the supervisory body must be satisfied that the person has, in the 12 months prior to selection, completed further training relevant to their role as a best interests assessor; and

has the skills necessary to obtain, evaluate and analyse complex evidence and differing views and to weigh them appropriately in decision making.