Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)

Managing Authorities are advised that, following the UK Supreme Court judgment of 2 June 2026 (UKSC 2025/0042), to follow this updated law when sending referrals.

To assist future referrals, the following are examples of circumstances that may indicate a deprivation of liberty:

• The person is trying to leave or expressing a wish to leave but is prevented
• Inability to give a valid consent in relation to deprivation of liberty
• Verbal or physical objection to care, treatment, or placement. This includes objections from family / LPA's
• Physical restraint or regular use of enhanced supervision (e.g. 1:1 specifically to prevent harm or leaving)
• Covert medication, where the person would otherwise refuse
• Use of sedation specifically to manage behaviour, particularly if it reduces the person's ability to resist or object
• Restrictions that go beyond standard clinical care and amount to control over movements or decision-making

If you are unsure if the person is deprived of the liberty, please still make the referral and we will make a decision.

Additionally, if the person's case is in the Court of Protection, let us know so we can prioritise for allocation.