MPs recently decided to continue the progress of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which seeks to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. Our CEO Tony Collins emphasizes that true freedom at the end of life can only exist if access to high-quality palliative care is as readily available to everyone.
“At the centre of all we do is our commitment to putting people first, respecting their dignity, autonomy and the choices they make at the end of their life.
“We understand that, if the law changes, some individuals with a terminal illness may choose assisted dying. Others will continue to choose high quality palliative care.
“Already, 100,000 people across the country are not able to receive the hospice care they need to live with the complex challenges of terminal illness. This is set to rise by over 40% by 2040.
“Despite this growing demand, one in five hospices is already being forced to cut services due to inadequate funding.
“In our own communities, we are doing all we can to continue to be there for people, so no one is left to face terminal illness alone.
“Thanks to the drive and dedication of our team, we’re not only meeting but exceeding our target to care for 50% more people each year.
“We’re extremely grateful to our supporters whose support through events, donations and gifts in wills helps to provide 75% of the income our charity needs to provide our services.
“But without increased and fairer statutory funding in the future, this simply won’t be sustainable to meet increasing demand.
“As Parliament considers legislation on assisted dying, the principle of freedom is frequently cited. But freedom of choice is only meaningful if people are equally free to access excellent end-of-life care. No one should feel pressured into ending their life because they lack adequate support.
“Legalising assisted dying without ensuring universal access to high-quality palliative care creates a dangerous imbalance. We have a moral duty to ensure that decisions about life and death are grounded in genuine preference not in fear, pain, or a sense of being a burden.
“We cannot give the legal right to assisted dying without the equivalent right to high quality palliative care.
“We will work closely with all those involved in the detail of the legislation, providing our expertise and experience on death and dying. This includes working hard to advocate that vulnerable people are well-protected and safeguarded.
“We will continue to promote choice, safety and the best care possible for patients in the way that’s right for them. This includes campaigning for an increase in our government funding, from 25% to a fairer and more sustainable share.”
We understand that this topic may bring a range of emotions and encourage anyone feeling affected or concerned to please contact our Just ‘B’ Hear to Help service for a listening ear.
