Overview

This bill proposes a new legal right for eligible individuals in England and Wales to die at home or their chosen place of residence. It requires the Secretary of State to create regulations outlining this right, ensuring healthcare professionals facilitate the wishes of those who qualify.

Description

The Right to Die at Home Bill aims to establish a statutory right for eligible people in England and Wales to die at home, or where they consider home to be. Key aspects include:

• Eligibility: The bill will define eligibility, including residency in the UK, and specify that the right applies to individuals whose attending doctor believes they are likely to die within three months.
• GP's Role: If a patient informs their GP of their wish to die at home, the GP must record this in their medical records.
• Healthcare Staff's Role: Health and care staff will be required to support and implement the individual's wishes.
• Definition of "Home": The bill mandates a clear definition of "home" and "the place the person regards as home".
• Government Guidance: The Secretary of State must provide guidance to health and care services on implementing the new right.
• Public Awareness: The Secretary of State will be responsible for promoting public awareness of the new right.
• Parliamentary Approval: Regulations created under this bill require approval from both Houses of Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify any exact figures for government spending. However, costs are expected to arise from creating and implementing regulations, producing and distributing guidance materials, and potentially in the increased demands on healthcare services associated with facilitating the right to die at home.

Groups Affected

• Terminally Ill Individuals: Those nearing the end of life will be directly affected, potentially gaining more control over their final days.
• Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers will have additional responsibilities and may need further training to implement the new right.
• Families and Carers: Families and carers of terminally ill individuals will also be impacted, as this might affect their roles in end-of-life care.
• Care Homes and Hospices: Potential impacts on these facilities' operations and resource allocation are unknown, however some adjustments will likely be needed.

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