The role of the Relevant Persons Representative (RPR)

Relevant Persons Representative

Every approved Deprivation of liberty safeguards (DoLS) must have someone to speak up for the person being cared for. This person is known as the Relevant Persons Representatives (RPR), and they must not work for the care home or the people in charge of it.

Usually, the representative is a friend or family member. But if the person doesn’t have anyone close to them, a trained and paid representative from a Mental Capacity Advocacy service will be chosen to help.

The representative might need to make decisions or take action for the person. They also have the right to speak up if they think the care plan is no longer right for the person, or if they believe something in the assessment is wrong. Before someone becomes a representative, checks are done to make sure they are suitable for the role.

What is Advocacy?

When you represent someone, you are advocating for them.

Advocacy means:

• Speaking up for the person
• Sharing their views
• Standing up for their rights
• Helping others understand their needs and wants

If you need help from an advocate, contact Matrix, who offer a advocacy service in the borough.