This CPD-accredited course helps care and support workers recognise when a person’s freedom may be restricted and understand what to do within their role.
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Explain what deprivation of liberty means.
- Recognise restrictions that may need review or reporting.
- Describe the links between capacity, consent and safeguards.
- Recognise signs of acceptance, contentment, distress or objection.
- Explain where the DoLS process can be used.
- Record, report and seek advice appropriately.
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Overview
This course is suitable for:
- Care Workers.
- Support Workers.
- Team Leaders.
- Senior Care Staff.
- Nurses.
- Staff working in care homes, supported living, and community services.
- Liberty, choice and least restrictive practice.
- The Mental Capacity Act principles.
- Restrictions, restraint and consent.
- The June 2026 Supreme Court judgment and legal update.
- Where DoLS applies and how community settings differ.
- Recording, reporting, reviews and representation.
- Videos, activities, knowledge checks and a final assessment.
The June 2026 judgment changed the legal definition of deprivation of liberty with immediate effect, so referring to the judgment rather than simply a general “legal update” is more precise.
Approx. 45 – 60 minutes, including videos, interactive tasks, and knowledge checks, though this may vary by learner.
For services in England, this course supports CQC Regulations 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 17. It also supports the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the DoLS framework used in England and Wales. Regulation 13 specifically includes unlawful restraint and inappropriate deprivation of liberty.
This course does not train learners to complete DoLS applications, carry out formal assessments or decide the legal position. It does not replace local procedures, safeguarding training, manager oversight or specialist advice.
Hugh Asher, BSc (Hons), MSc (Merit), PhD (Applied Social Science)
As a course consultant, Hugh brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role. His extensive background in working with individuals with diverse needs, combined with his passion for utilising nature as a therapeutic tool, allows him to provide valuable insights and guidance to learners.
Participants in the courses “Caring for People with Autism”, “Supporting People with Learning Disabilities”, “Mental Health Awareness” and “Mental Health, Dementia and Learning Disabilities” can expect to gain valuable skills and understanding in providing effective care and support.
