Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR)

The Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) is a legal framework that aims to protect people who lack capacity and are deprived of their liberty. A Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) is a necessary and essential role under the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). It is the role of the RPR to maintain regular contact with the relevant person who has been deprived of liberty, and represent them in all relevant matters

An RPR is often a friend or family member who will ensure that the rights of the person being deprived of their liberty is being protected. However, if there is no friend or family member a paid RPR will be appointed.

A Paid Relevant Person Representative (PRPR) is someone who visits people who are subject to Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) which restrict their lives in some way and do not have family and friends to ensure these are being used fairly, appropriately, and safely.

What you need to do?

Congratulations on agreeing to carry out the particularly vital role of Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR). As part of this role, you will receive a copy of the form 5 document authorising the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).

We kindly ask that you sign and return the form as early as possible, ideally within three weeks. This is a crucial part in completing the process as it also allows us to send out the remaining relevant documents.

We have a legal duty to work in the best interest of the individual by not delaying access to a representative. If for any reason you have changed your mind, please inform the DoLS team as soon as possible so a paid RPR can be assigned.

If we do not receive the signed confirmation within a reasonable period, we will appoint a paid representative. We hope you can help us in this important task.

If you require support at any time with your role as RPR, please inform the DoLS team. If during the DoLS assessment process, the assessor determines that you or the person you are supporting would benefit from the support of an independent advocate, one will be appointed to provide support.

Please follow the link below for more information on advocacy support.

A guide for relevant person’s representatives

Support for you in your role as a Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR)

Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA)