Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards
Apply for Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) authorisation
Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) protect people who do not have the mental capacity to consent to care or hospital treatment. It checks that the deprivation is both appropriate and in their best interests.
DoLS apply to anyone who:
- is aged 18 or older
- has an impairment of, or a disturbance, in the functioning of the mind or brain
- lacks the capacity to give consent to their care or treatment
- is receiving care or treatment that might amount to a deprivation of liberty under Article 5 of the European Court of Human Rights
For more information about how the process works, read:
- guidance on the deprivation of liberty process and the mental capacity act on Mind
- factsheet about deprivation of liberty on Age UK
- how to appeal to the Court of Protection on GOV.UK
Types of authorisation
There are two types of authorisations: urgent and standard.
You can:
- contact the DoLS team for the form you need
- find the request forms and guidance on GOV.UK
Urgent authorisation
This is needed when the person is currently being deprived of their liberty in a hospital setting or a care home. The application covers the placement for up to 14 days.
If the hospital or care home believes the person will remain in their care for longer than 14 days they can apply to the Local Authority for a standard authorisation at the same time.
Standard authorisation
This is needed when the person will be deprived of liberty in the next 28 days.
The hospital or care home (managing authority) apply to the relevant local authority (supervisory body) for a standard authorisation. This triggers a number of assessments before the deprivation of liberty (DOL) can be authorised.
Contact the DoLS team
Send all urgent and standard referrals to the DoLS team.