New official statistics for DoLS cases, 2022-23
NHS Digital has published national statistics for DoLS cases for the period April 2022 to March 2023. The report reveals that:
- There were an estimated 300,765 requests for authorisations during 2022-23, up 11% on the previous year
- There were 289,150 authorisations completed in 2022-23, while 126,100 remain uncompleted as of the end of the year
- Of all DoLS applications, 56% of applications were not granted, mostly due to either change of circumstances, misapplication (requiring a community DoLS or Inherent Jurisdiction) or not meeting the assessment criteria
- The statutory 21-day timeframe for authorisations was only met in 19% of cases