Today (20th June 2025), MPs in the House of Commons voted in favour of legislation that would introduce assisted dying in England and Wales. This is a moment of significant change, and we recognise that for many people—whether members of the public or professionals working in palliative and end-of-life care—it brings with it a mix of emotions.
Some will be relieved, others may feel deeply worried. This is a subject that touches people at a very personal level, and we believe it’s vital to make space for all voices and views. At Hospice in the Weald, we remain neutral. We are open to debate and discussion, and we continue to listen carefully to our patients, our colleagues, and our community.
It is important to stress that this Bill is not yet law. There is still a great deal of parliamentary scrutiny to come, including further debate in the House of Lords. Even if it becomes law, implementation is expected to take several years. The current proposal sets out a four-year period to put systems and safeguards in place, meaning that for now, nothing changes, and assisted dying remains illegal in England and Wales.
We are pleased to see the inclusion of Clause 20, which requires the Government to consult with palliative and end-of-life care providers ahead of implementing the Bill. If this legislation does progress, it is vital that any future changes are informed by the insights and experiences of those who deliver care at the end of life. We believe that adequate, sustainable funding for palliative and end-of-life care must be part of this national conversation.
Hospice in the Weald will always operate fully within the law. And whatever legal changes may come, our focus remains the same: to provide the best possible care to every patient and family who needs us.
As we’ve stated in our Position Statement on Assisted Dying, we will continue to support patients in making choices that are right for them. Everyone deserves to receive high-quality, compassionate end-of-life care—no matter who they are, where they are, or what they believe.
