Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS) Practitioner

Job Description

Job Summary

An exciting opportunity is available to join the All Age Complex and Continuing Healthcare (AACCC) Service within the BOB Integrated Care Board as a Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) Practitioner.

We are seeking experienced and dedicated professionals to support and carry out DoLS assessments for individuals under Continuing Healthcare (CHC). The role includes assessing capacity, submitting applications (including to the Court of Protection), and promoting good MCA/DoLS practice across the service.

Applicants must be registered with a relevant UK professional body such as Social Work England, NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council), or HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council).

Key Responsibilities

Conduct and coordinate DoLS assessments for people in receipt of Continuing Healthcare funding, particularly those in supported living or private residences.

Ensure legal compliance with the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS legislation, escalating concerns where appropriate.

Liaise with the Court of Protection and/or ICB legal teams to process applications.

Deliver training to support understanding and implementation of the MCA and DoLS within the CHC team.

Provide specialist advice and leadership on complex cases and MCA-related issues.

Build effective relationships with patients, families, care providers, legal representatives, and colleagues.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of legislation, policies, and best practice guidance in this area.

Adhere to professional standards and maintain current registration and mandatory training.

Contribute to continuous improvement and service development as part of the wider AACCC team.

Essential Requirements

Qualifications

A professional qualification in a relevant health or social care field.

Registration with a recognised UK professional body (e.g. NMC, HCPC, Social Work England).

Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD).

Experience

Significant experience and strong working knowledge of:

Mental Capacity Act (MCA)

Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)

Continuing Healthcare (CHC)

Experience working with people with complex health and social care needs.

Knowledge of relevant national health policy and its practical implications.

Experience working with multidisciplinary teams and providing expert advice or training.

Skills and Competencies

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to handle sensitive or complex issues.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make decisions independently.

Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and meet tight deadlines.

Competence in planning short-, medium-, and long-term activities and adapting to change.

Leadership ability to support colleagues and champion good MCA/DoLS practice.

Confident in managing professional boundaries, ethical dilemmas, and legal responsibilities.

About Us

The Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West (BOB) Integrated Care Board (ICB) is responsible for the planning and delivery of health and care services to over 1.7 million residents. Working collaboratively with partners across the NHS, local authorities, and voluntary sectors, we aim to improve health outcomes, reduce inequalities, and promote integrated care.

We value diversity and inclusion and actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups including people from ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled individuals, LGBTQ+ people, and younger candidates.

Our Values:

Respectful – We are inclusive and value each individual.

Impactful – We focus on making a positive difference.

Integrity – We act fairly and with compassion.

Leadership – We encourage and support leadership at all levels.

Collaborative – We work together positively.

Additional Information

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check

This post requires an Enhanced DBS check due to its involvement with vulnerable adults.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current registration with a recognised UK health or social care regulatory body.

How to Apply

Apply via the NHS Jobs website by 01 September 2025. Ensure your application demonstrates your suitability against the person specification.