Hospice UK responds to Scottish vote on Assisted Dying

MSPs today voted to not progress with the proposed legalisation of assisted dying in Scotland. 

In response, Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK says: “The assisted dying debate by MSPs has raised important questions about how we support people at the end of life. Despite today’s decision not to progress with assisted dying in Scotland, those questions still need answers. Over 60,000 people die in Scotland each year and the number of people who need palliative care is rising rapidly.

“While Hospice UK is neutral on the principle of assisted dying, it is imperative that everyone approaching the end of life can access the care and support they need. High-quality palliative and end of life care must be available to everyone who needs it. Right now, too many Scots, of all ages, are dying without the support they need, and demand for palliative care is only growing. 

"The assisted dying debate has exposed deep inequities in access to palliative care across Scotland. Assisted dying may not be coming to Scotland, but investing in hospice and palliative care must happen regardless: it is critical to ensure choice, dignity and compassion at the end of life. 

“As Scotland heads towards the next election, all parties must make palliative care a national priority and commit to long-term sustainable funding for hospices.

“Hospice UK is also calling on the next Scottish Government to commit to an independent review of palliative care, to ensure everyone who needs end of life care can access the support they deserve.”