At Hospice in the Weald, we have been closely following the Private Members’ Bill on Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults. This time last week, MPs voted in favour of the Bill. This marks a significant moment, and we recognise that the news will have evoked a wide range of emotions and reactions throughout our community.
As an organisation, we are open to debate and discussion about the role of assisted dying within British society. We are aware that public opinion on this matter continues to evolve and believe we should play a role in any debate about the legalisation of assisted dying.
“Hospices must have a voice. Throughout this process, we will ensure that our voice is heard, contributing in line with our established position and the values we uphold. We are encouraged by one consistent message that has emerged from the recent debate: on all sides, there is agreement that palliative and end-of-life care in the UK is not yet equitable. Nationally people are not always receiving the care they need, and that must change. We believe much of that starts with ensuring adequate funding for palliative care. We urge MPs and those involved in progressing this bill to ensure the hospice sector is heard and understood,” says Nick Farthing, Chief Executive.
Our position statement clearly sets out our views and our desire to be part of the conversation around assisted dying. As the law stands now, assisted dying is not a part of palliative care practice. If the law in England is changed in the future, Hospice in the Weald will continue to support patients in making choices that are right for them and their loved ones.
Everyone should have access to high-quality palliative and end-of-life care, irrespective of the future of the Assisted Dying Bill. We want to reassure you that we will continue to provide our compassionate, holistic and patient-centred care according to the law. We are committed to ensuring that all patients feel supported in discussing their views openly as they approach the end of their lives.
