Overview

This bill seeks to amend the definition of "terminal illness" within the Welfare Reform Act 2012. The change aims to broaden the criteria for accessing welfare benefits for those with terminal illnesses, making it easier for individuals to qualify.

Description

The bill amends section 82 of the Welfare Reform Act 2012. The key change is to replace the existing definition of "terminal illness." The new definition states that a person is terminally ill if a healthcare professional clinically judges them to have a progressive disease reasonably expected to cause death. The bill specifies that a "healthcare professional" includes registered medical practitioners, registered nurses, and other professionals as prescribed by the National Health Service Reform and Health Care Professions Act 2002.

Government Spending

The bill will result in increased government spending. The exact amount is not specified, but Clause 2 indicates that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State or government departments, along with any increases in payments under other Acts, will be met from public funds.

Groups Affected

This bill primarily affects individuals with terminal illnesses and their families. It could positively impact those who previously did not meet the stricter definition of terminal illness but now qualify for welfare support. Healthcare professionals involved in assessing terminal illness will also be affected by the changed definition.

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