Deprivation of liberty safeguards (DoLS)

If an adult who lacks capacity to make decisions about their care and accommodation is staying in your care home or hospital, their care may need to be authorised by the local authority.

If this is the case for someone in your care, please complete the online DoLS application on the Adults portal.

Forms

DoLS forms and guidance are available on the government website.

If you have any questions about these forms, please email the: Adult Social Care DOLS team.

Supreme Court ruling - March 2014

The ruling clarified that an adult who lacks the capacity to make decisions about their accommodation and care is objectively deprived of their liberty if they are subject to continuous supervision and control and are not free to leave.