Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)
Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, exists to safeguard individuals when a deprivation of liberty is an unavoidable part of a best interests care plan, where they lack the capacity to make decisions about their care, treatment and accommodation.
A Deprivation of Liberty is:
- putting someone under the deprivation of liberty safeguard to keep them safe
- restricting someone's freedom to give them constant supervision and care
- for those who are in a care home or hospital for treatment but cannot make choices in their best interest
If someone is under a Deprivation of Liberty:
- a representative will be identified. This will be a family member, friend or a paid representative who will visit and check they're being looked after in a way that means they're safe.
- they can ask for a review
- they or their representative disagree with the deprivation, they can ask for the court of protection to decide if they should be deprived of their liberty.
To find out more about the DoLS process in Kent, visit the Kent County Council Website.
To find out more about the DoLS process in Medway, visit the Medway Council Website.