Sue Ryder Chief Executive responds to assisted dying bill
Sue Ryder's Chief Executive, James Sanderson, responds to the assisted dying bill being discussed in the House of Commons today.
The assisted dying bill is being discussed widely today. The debate on this issue has sparked conversations across the country on what it means to die well, which is an issue at the very heart of what we do.
We are neutral on the issue of assisted dying, but recognise there are strongly held views on all sides of the debate, including among the people we care for in their own homes and our hospices.
Sadly, only half the people who need palliative care receive it. Regardless of how the assisted dying bill progresses, this fact is something politicians and the Government must no longer tolerate and must commit to fixing.
The idea that some dying people may feel an assisted death is their only option because the care they deserve is not available is surely unacceptable to people on all sides and must be a unifying thread in this debate.
No one should face death or grief alone.
If you, or someone you know, is dealing with a terminal diagnosis and have been affected by the debate and media on this issue, we have support and advice to help.
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