Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards in hospitals and care homes
This page is for hospital staff, care home managers and professionals who need to apply for a DoLS authorisation.
When a DoLS application is required
You must apply for DoLS if a person:
- Is confined in a restricted space for a significant period, and
- They have not validly consented to the confinement
The care home or hospital is the managing authority and is responsible for making the application.
Referrals
There is an online portal where care homes and hospitals can make a referral for an urgent or a standard authorisation.
What happens after you apply
Once an application is received, the local authority which acts as the Supervisory Body will allocate for an independent assessment to be completed by a Best Interest Assessor. This is to determine the type of restrictions in place and whether or not the person the person is validly consenting to these and the living arrangements.
If the person is deemed to provide a valid consent and there are no concerns, the dols process will end at that point.
If the person is deemed to not provide valid consent, the DoLS process will proceed and a standard authorisation is granted.
The person’s rights
If a DoLS authorisation is granted, the person:
- Must have a Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR)
- Has the right to request a review
- Can challenge the authorisation, including through the Court of Protection
Apply for DoLS
Complete the online form to apply for DoLS. We will process your application and contact you if we need further information.
Contact
For help and support, contact the DoLS team:
- Email: dols@wandsworth.gov.uk
- Telephone: 020 8871 8701