Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)

Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) are legal protections in the UK designed to ensure that individuals who lack mental capacity are not unlawfully detained in care settings, such as hospitals or care homes. These safeguards ensure that decisions made about a person’s care and treatment are in their best interests and protect their rights. If a person is to be deprived of their liberty for their safety, a proper assessment and authorisation process must be followed, involving checks to ensure it’s necessary, proportionate, and the least restrictive option available.