Social Care News

Changes to Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards guidance – new forms to be used from November 2

The Welsh Health Circular (October 2015) has listed changes and revisions to the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards forms and guidance. New forms should be used in Wales from November 2, 2015.

A review of the guidance was agreed after a Supreme Court judgment, often known as Cheshire West, brought into sharp focus the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Since then an expert working group has revised the forms and guidance.

CFW policy adviser Melanie Minty said: "Care Forum Wales has been involved in producing the new forms and I am grateful to members who gave time to provide comments and feedback.

"I would recommend that the 'Managing Authority' who has responsibility within the care home takes a little time to read through the guidance, particularly those sections on applying for authorisations and notifying the Coroner of the death of a person within the home who is subject to a DoLS.

"I will be happy to take up and comments or queries you may have about the forms," she added.

New DoLS forms apply in Wales

The new forms have been updated and reduced in number to lessen the burden on managing authorities and supervisory bodies, while enabling them to better demonstrate compliance with DoLS.

NB Those using the old forms, edited forms or the DoLS ADSS / DH forms issued in England are at risk of failing to comply with the DoLS requirements in Wales.

Link to the new DoLs forms which apply in Wales from November 2:

• All local authorities and local health board in Wales should use the forms which can be found here.