Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS)

This information is to help you understand what Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) is and how it may impact you or a family member/friend.

What does DoLS mean?

The Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) are an essential part of the Mental Capacity Act (2005). DoLS aim to protect vulnerable individuals who live in care homes or hospitals. The safeguards mean any care arrangements that restrict a person’s liberty are in their best interests.    

Who do the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards apply to?  

People who are over 18 who:  

• have an impairment of, or a disturbance in the functioning of, the mind or brain, and
• lack the mental capacity to make decisions about their accommodation in a care home, or admission to hospital, for the purpose of care and/ or treatment.  

And who are:

• under continuous supervision, and
• not free to leave the care home or hospital ward to live where and with whom they choose. 

Can I get support and representation?  

You have the right to have a representative who will support you through the DoLS process. This could be a family member, a friend, or an advocate. 

If there is no-one suitable to represent you, the local authority can arrange for an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) to support you.  

Your representative must be willing to support you to challenge the decision, or ask for it to be reviewed, if you object to your care arrangements. 

What can I do if I have concerns about deprivation of liberty? 

If you feel you or someone is being deprived of their liberty without any authorisation in a hospital, care home or other setting, please contact our DoLS Team DoLS@reading.gov.uk or by post: DoLS Team, Adult Social Care, Reading Borough Council, Bridge Street, Reading, RG1 2LY. 

Tel number:  0118 937 2234