title: An Investigation into the use of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards with People with Intellectual Disabilities.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This small, qualitative study sought to develop a richer understanding of the way in which the deprivation of liberty safeguards (DOLS) were being used for people with intellectual disabilities. It is important to note that this study was completed prior to the changes resulting from the P v Cheshire West and Chester Council judgement.
  
  
  METHODS
  Six DOLS cases were identified and two people involved in each case were interviewed (care home managers, key workers, social workers, specialist nurses or psychologists), using semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed using grounded theory techniques.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The interviewees described DOLS as providing a framework leading to positive outcomes for the people they supported, in some cases avoiding inpatient stays. However, they had a number of concerns including lack of knowledge and training, potential under use of DOLS and disappointment with case law.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Overall, these findings are encouraging in regard to the specific individuals for whom DOLS applications were made; however, they also highlight the need for a stronger agenda regarding wider dissemination of information, and training about DOLS, as well as some reform.
authors.affiliation: South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, London, UK.|Mental Health in Learning Disabilities (Psychology) Southwark, CTC, Maudsley Hospital, London, UK.
authors.forename: Kate
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Blamires
authors.affiliation: The Tizard Centre, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.
authors.forename: Rachel
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Forrester-Jones
authors.affiliation: The Tizard Centre, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.
authors.forename: Glynis
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Murphy
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003134:Commitment of Persons with Psychiatric Disorders / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005260:Female; D005610:Freedom; D006806:Human Rights / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability; D008297:Male; D036301:Qualitative Research; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: challenging behaviour; deprivation of liberty; learning disability; mental capacity; restriction; social care