In the first of a three-part blog series, Case Manager and Independent Best Interest Assessor Eleanor Tallon shares her thoughts on DoLS reform, and some of the issues leading to its replacement with the forthcoming Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS).
The UK Government has launched an open consultation around changes to the MCA Code of Practice and implementation of the LPS. The consultation document is available for anyone to access and can be downloaded in a number of different formats, including a draft version of the new Code. Professionals are encouraged to read the document(s) as appropriate and feedback via online forms. There is no requirement to study the complete set of proposals in order to take part.
A Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) is a necessary and essential role under the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). It is the role of the RPR to maintain regular contact with the relevant person who has been deprived of liberty, and represent them in all relevant matters. This can include: appealing against a DoLS authorisation, requesting a review, ensuring least restrictive practices are in place or raising a complaint.