Overview

This bill aims to give eligible individuals in England and Wales the legal right to die at home or their chosen place of residence. It mandates the government to create regulations ensuring healthcare providers facilitate this right for those who are likely to die within three months.

Description

The Right to Die at Home Bill establishes a statutory right for eligible individuals to die at home. Key aspects include:

• Eligibility: The bill defines eligibility, including residency in England and Wales and a medical prognosis indicating a likely death within three months.
• GP Notification: Individuals must inform their GP of their wish to die at home, requiring the GP to record this in their medical records.
• Healthcare Provider Responsibility: Health and care staff must implement and facilitate the individual's wish to die at home.
• Definition of "Home": The bill requires a clear definition of "home" and "the place that the person regards as home".
• Government Guidance and Promotion: The Secretary of State will issue guidance for healthcare services and promote public awareness of the right.
• Parliamentary Approval: Regulations must be approved by both Houses of Parliament before coming into effect.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures, but it will likely incur costs associated with creating and implementing the regulations, providing guidance, and promoting public awareness. Further costs may arise from any necessary changes to healthcare services to facilitate the right.

Groups Affected

• Terminally ill individuals: Those who are eligible and wish to die at home will directly benefit.
• Healthcare professionals (GPs, nurses, etc.): These professionals will have increased responsibilities regarding recording patient wishes and facilitating end-of-life care at home.
• Families and carers: They will be impacted by the increased responsibilities and possibly the practical arrangements involved in end-of-life care at home.
• Government bodies: These will bear responsibility for creating, implementing and funding the regulations and guidance.

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