‘Betty’* (name changed), an older woman with complex physical and mental health needs, lived in a care home. She was subject to a standard Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) authorisation, which meant her freedom was restricted.
A Cloverleaf Advocate, ‘Alison’, was appointed as Betty’s Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR). Alison’s role was to ensure Betty’s rights under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 were upheld – particularly in relation to her deprivation of liberty – and to support her in making her voice heard.
Alison regularly visited Betty at the care home to get to know her views, wishes and feelings. During their conversations, Betty consistently expressed a desire to leave the care home and live independently. Alison supported her to understand her rights under DoLS, instruct a solicitor to initiate a Section 21A Challenge to the Court of Protection, and to engage in the legal process, including expressing a wish to speak directly to the Judge.
Section 21A proceedings were progressed through multiple Round Table Meetings and Hearings, and Betty’s voice was consistently represented and heard throughout the process.
With support from Betty’s social worker, multiple placements were explored; Betty visited all the settings under consideration and she was actively involved in decision-making.
As Betty’s RPR, Alison supported her over an 18-month period to understand and challenge her deprivation of liberty, express her views and wishes, and navigate the complex legal, health, and social care systems.
Ultimately, Betty moved to a new care home, a placement she had visited and liked. The standard DoLS authorisation ended upon her move, and the RPR role concluded.
This case highlights the critical role of the RPR in safeguarding liberty, promoting autonomy, and ensuring legal safeguards are meaningfully applied. Consistent advocacy and effective multi-agency collaboration enabled Betty to challenge her restrictions, express her wishes, and ultimately move to a more suitable and empowering living arrangement.
To learn more about DoLS and RPR support, please visit: RPR and DoLS IMCA – Cloverleaf Advocacy
