Overview

This bill aims to give people in England a legal right to die at home, or in a place they consider home, if their doctor believes they are likely to die within three months. The bill requires the Secretary of State to create regulations outlining the process and support its implementation.

Description

The Right to Die at Home Bill establishes a legal right for eligible individuals in England to die at home or their chosen place of residence. Key features include:

• Eligibility: The right applies to those deemed likely to die within three months by an attending doctor, with specific criteria for eligibility and residency to be defined by regulations.
• GP Notification: Individuals wishing to die at home must inform their GP, who must record this in their medical records.
• Healthcare Staff Obligation: Health and care staff will be legally required to support and facilitate the individual's wish.
• Definition of "Home": Regulations will define "home" and "the place that the person regards as home".
• Government Guidance: The Secretary of State will provide guidance to health and care services on implementing the right.
• Public Awareness: The government will promote public awareness of the new right.
• Parliamentary Approval: Regulations must be approved by both Houses of Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, costs will likely arise from creating and implementing the regulations, producing and disseminating guidance materials, and potentially increasing support services for end-of-life care.

Groups Affected

• Terminally Ill Individuals: This group would directly benefit from the right to choose their place of death.
• Healthcare Professionals: GPs, nurses, and other healthcare staff will have additional responsibilities in fulfilling the requirements of the bill.
• Families and Carers: This group may experience both increased support and additional burden, depending on individual circumstances.
• Local Authorities: Local authorities will likely face added responsibilities in managing the provision of end-of-life care within their communities.

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