Full Breakdown
Sir Ranulph Fiennes Allegedly Deprived of Liberty in Care Homes
By Drooid · · How we work
Unlawful Deprivation of Liberty Claims
A health watchdog has concluded that Sir Ranulph Fiennes, 82, has been “unlawfully deprived of his liberty” after his wife, Louise Millington-Cotes, placed him in a succession of care homes under a false name and without a required deprivation-of-liberty safeguards (DoLS) order. Friends say Millington-Cotes barred visitors, required non-disclosure agreements, and insisted he be disguised in public. One care-home owner reported concerns about unusual medication arrangements and an incomplete “do not resuscitate” document to the Office of the Public Guardian and the police.
Background and Context
Louise Millington-Cotes was granted a lasting power of attorney for Sir Ranulph in 2024. Under the Mental Health Capacity Act 2005, a DoLS order must be authorised by two independent professionals when a person lacking capacity is placed in restrictive care. The Care Inspectorate of Wales found at the start of the year that the required safeguards had not been put in place, meaning the explorer’s liberty was being restricted unlawfully.
Timeline
- 2024 – Millington-Cotes receives lasting power of attorney for Sir Ranulph.
- Early 2024 – Care Inspectorate Wales issues a finding that Sir Ranulph is being deprived of liberty without an authorised DoLS order.
- September 24 – The Daily Telegraph reports that Millington-Cotes refused visits, concealed his identity, and that a care-home owner alerted the Office of the Public Guardian.
Data and Statistics
- Public absence: approximately two years (since 2024).
- Care locations: homes in London, Wales, and Cheshire.
- Legal instruments: lasting power of attorney granted 2024; no DoLS order in place despite requirement.
Official Statements & Responses
- Care Inspectorate Wales: “Care Inspectorate Wales is committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing and rights of people who receive social care services across Wales. It would not be appropriate for us to comment on an individual’s personal circumstances or care arrangements.”
- Police: Contacted after the care-home owner raised concerns, though no further details were released.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the date of Sir Ranulph’s last public appearance. One report states his final public address was a video for the Royal Geographical Society recorded in October 2024, while another notes he had not been seen publicly since September 2024. No independent verification of either date has been provided.
What’s Next
Friends and relatives are reportedly preparing a legal challenge to Millington-Cotes’s guardianship, citing the lack of a DoLS order and alleged concealment of his whereabouts. The outcome may prompt a review of lasting-power-of-attorney practices and the enforcement of DoLS requirements for vulnerable adults placed in care.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Care Inspectorate Wales is committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing and rights of people who receive social care services across Wales. It would not be appropriate for us to comment on an individual’s personal circumstances or care arrangements.” — Ginny, Care Inspectorate Wales
- “Care Inspectorate Wales said in a statement: “Care Inspectorate Wales is committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing and rights of people who receive social care services across Wales.” — Care Inspectorate Wales
