Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)

A piece of legislation in the UK that aims to protect the liberty of individuals who are deprived of their liberty in a care home or hospital. Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) are safeguards within the Mental Capacity Act 2005 to protect the rights of individuals who are deprived of their liberty in care homes or hospitals. They are also described as safeguards within UK law to protect the rights of individuals who are deprived of their liberty in care homes or hospitals, safeguards related to the deprivation of liberty for individuals, and a legal framework in the UK designed to protect the rights of individuals who are, or may be, deprived of their liberty in order to receive care or treatment.