Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)

The Mental Capacity Act has provided a legal framework to ensure that people that lack capacity who are being deprived of their liberty are being done so lawfully. Find out more here.

Who does the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards apply to

The Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards apply to people:

  • Aged 18 years or over.
  • Who suffer from a disturbance of the mind or brain – such as dementia or a profound learning disability.
  • People who cannot agree to their own care or treatment, but who may need to be cared for or treated in a way that restricts their freedom in order to keep them safe.

They do not apply to people detained under the Mental Health Act 1983.

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