Last updated:
18th December 2025
Community Deprivation of Liberty (DoL) Explained
What is a Community DoL?
This applies to someone living in:
- their own home
- supported living
It does not apply to someone living in a care home or staying in hospital
If a person lacks the mental capacity to consent to their care arrangements, a deprivation of liberty must be authorised by the Court of Protection to ensure the person’s right to freedom is protected.
What is the Court of Protection
The Court of Protection deals with matters relating to people who may lack capacity to make decisions for themselves.
In all cases, the Court aims to protect the person’s rights and freedom as far as possible.
Deprivation of Liberty (DoL) Order
A DoL Order does not necessarily mean that there is anything wrong with the person’s
care or where they are living. It does not necessarily mean that the restrictions the person
lives with, need to change.
These restrictions are in place to keep the person safe from harm. They should be proportionate to the risk posed. Examples of restrictions are:
- Care support
- Lap belts in wheelchairs
- Raised bed rails
- Locked doors
- No free access to medication
There may be other restrictions in place depending on the individual’s needs. Medicines
that have a sedative effect may be considered a restrictions.
How does a DoL Order protect the right to liberty?
The DoL Order ensures that:
- The person is asked for their feelings about where and how they live.
- All those involved in their care agree that their care plan is in their best interests.
- The person is living in an appropriate place which meets their needs.
- The person has an advocate, if required, to support them to get their feelings heard.
- The care arrangements will be reviewed by a judge.
- The person or someone involved in their care has the right to appeal if they disagree
with the arrangements. - The arrangements are reviewed and will continue no longer than is necessary.
What to do if you’re worried about someone’s freedom
If you think someone might be having their freedom limited in the community, talk to the person in charge of their care, or phone our First Contact Team.
Phone: 0300 365 1234
