What is the role of a Relevant Persons Representative (RPR)?
Within advocacy, particularly concerning individuals who may lack the capacity to make decisions about their care and accommodation, the role of a RPR or PRPR is vital.
They ensure that the rights and wishes of these individuals are upheld and the persons care remains reasonable, proportionate and in their best interests when they are subject to Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).
Understanding the Relevant Persons Representative (RPR)
The RPR is a legal role established under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. When an individual is deprived of their liberty in a care home or hospital, and they lack the capacity to consent to their care arrangements, an RPR is appointed to represent them. This appointment can be made by a family member, friend or a professional advocate. If no suitable person is available, a paid an independent person from an advocacy service may be appointed to fulfil this role, known as a Paid Representative (PRPR).
Key responsibilities of an RPR or PRPR
1. Advocating for the Individual's Rights: They ensure that the individual's rights are protected throughout a DoLS authorisation. They act as a voice for the individual, especially when they cannot or do not wish express their views themselves.
2. Monitoring the Care Environment: Regular visits are conducted to assess whether the care setting complies with the conditions of the DoLS authorisation. This includes ensuring that the individual's care is appropriate and that any restrictions are justified.
3. Supporting the Individual's Understanding: They help the individual understand their situation and the implications of the DoLS authorisation. They provide information in a manner that is accessible to the individual, considering their capacity and communication needs.
4. Requesting Reviews and Legal Challenges: If they believe that the conditions of the DoLS authorisation are not being met or they do not meet the criteria for remaining under DoLS, they can request a review. Additionally, they have the right to support the individual in making an application to the Court of Protection to challenge the authorisation.
5. Real-life applications of the RPR or PRPR Role
In practice, their role is crucial in ensuring that individuals are not unlawfully deprived of their liberty. For instance, if a care home imposes restrictions on an individual's freedom without proper authorisation, the RPR can intervene to ensure that the individual's rights are upheld.
Uphold Advocacy's commitment
Uphold Advocacy are dedicated to promoting your rights and choices. Our team provides comprehensive advocacy services, including the appointment of Paid Representatives (PRPR’s), where there is no other appropriate person to be appointed. We offer services tailored to meet the needs of individuals in Herefordshire, Hertfordshire and beyond.
Our services include:
· Statutory Advocacy Services: Providing legal advocacy to ensure individuals' rights are upheld.
· SEN Support: Assisting individuals with Special Educational Needs in navigating educational settings.
· Lay Advocacy: Supporting individuals in expressing their views and making informed decisions.
· Complaints Advocacy: Helping individuals raise concerns and complaints effectively.
· Instructed Advocacy: Acting on behalf of individuals who have given instructions regarding their advocacy.
· Non-statutory Advocacy: Providing support outside of statutory requirements to ensure individuals' voices are heard.
Referrals and contact information
Referrals for PRPR services can be made by individuals, local authorities where a person is subject to DoLS To discuss a case or to make a referral, please call us on 01432 345 748 or visit our contact page.
Richard Morris, Director at Uphold Advocacy, says: “The Paid Representative role is integral to ensuring that those who cannot speak for themselves are still heard. Our advocacy service is here to make sure that every individual is given the care, respect, and dignity they deserve.”
The role of the Paid Representative is vital in safeguarding the rights of individuals who are deprived of their liberty and subject to a DoLS authorisation. The team at Uphold Advocacy are committed to ensuring that these individuals have a voice and that their rights are upheld.
