Now Is Not The Time

The introduction of the Assisted Dying Bill in the UK Parliament by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater on October 16, 2024, raises grave concerns for the disability community. As an organisation committed to protecting the rights of disabled individuals, Not Dead Yet UK strongly opposes any legislation that could put vulnerable people at even greater risk.

While the Bill purports to offer only a "choice" for terminally ill adults, we question the validity of such a choice in a society where adequate support and care are not guaranteed. The harsh reality is that our health and social care systems are crumbling, leaving many disabled and elderly individuals without the essential services they need to live with dignity. In such a context, the "choice" to end one's life may feel like the only option. 

Mission Creep

Furthermore, our experience and observations of assisted suicide laws in other countries, Not Dead Yet UK, has serious concerns about the potential for scope creep if this legislation is passed. While the current Bill claims to be limited to terminally ill adults, we have seen how quickly such restrictions can be eroded in other jurisdictions.

In Canada, for example, what began as a law for those near the end of life has rapidly expanded to include those with non-terminal conditions, disabilities, and even mental illness as sole qualifying conditions. The Netherlands has similarly broadened eligibility over time to include psychiatric patients and those with dementia. This mission creep puts vulnerable populations at risk and fundamentally alters the role of medicine in society.

We fear that passing this bill, even with its current limitations, will open the door to future amendments that could extend assisted dying to those who are not terminally ill, including disabled people and those with mental health conditions. Once the principle is established in law, it becomes much easier to expand eligibility criteria. This slippery slope effect has been clearly demonstrated in other countries, and we must learn from their experiences rather than repeating their mistakes.

Safeguards

We are deeply skeptical of the proposed safeguards. No safeguards can ever be 100% effective, and the consequences of failure are irreversible. We ask, what level of risk is acceptable when lives are at stake? How can we ensure that no one feels pressured, either directly or indirectly, to end their life prematurely?

It is also crucial to recognise that palliative care and the hospice movement, which provide vital support to those at the end of life, are severely underfunded and stretched to their limits. Until we as a society prioritise funding for these essential services, we cannot in good conscience consider legalising assisted suicide.

Now Is Not The Time

We firmly believe that now is not the time for this legislation. Our focus must be on fixing our broken social and health care systems, ensuring that every individual has access to the support they need to live and die with dignity on their own terms. We need to address the societal inequalities that make some lives seem less valuable than others.

Legalising assisted suicide without first addressing these underlying issues is putting the cart before the horse. It sends a message that ending one's life is an acceptable solution to the challenges faced by disabled and terminally ill individuals, rather than working to create a society where everyone can thrive.

As the Bill moves forward, we urge policymakers to centre the voices of disabled individuals in the debate. We will continue to advocate fiercely against any legislation that devalues our lives and fails to protect the most vulnerable among us. The true measure of a society is how it treats those who are most marginalized – and we will not rest until every life is valued and supported.

Call to Action

As the Assisted Dying Bill progresses through Parliament, we urge all concerned citizens to take action and make their voices heard. Here's how you can help:

1. Write to your MP: Express your concerns about the safety of this bill and its potential impact on vulnerable individuals. Share your personal experiences and reasons for opposing assisted suicide. Emphasize the need for better care and support services instead of legalizing assisted dying. Send them this link of Liz Carr's documentary "Better Off Dead"

2. Create a video: If you're able, record a one-minute video expressing your concerns about the bill. This personal touch can be incredibly powerful. Send this video to your MP to ensure they understand the real-world implications of this legislation. We also encourage you to share your video with us at Not Dead Yet UK, as it helps us amplify diverse voices in our campaign. (brinkburn@gmail.com)

3. Support our work: If you have the means, please consider making a small donation to Not Dead Yet UK. Your contribution, no matter how modest, will be a tremendous help in our ongoing efforts to protect the rights and lives of disabled people. These funds enable us to continue our advocacy work, produce informational materials, and maintain our presence in this crucial debate. Donate

4. Spread awareness: Share information about the bill and its potential consequences with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people understand what's at stake, the stronger our collective voice becomes.

5. Attend local meetings: If your MP or local representatives hold constituency meetings or surgeries, attend them and voice your concerns in person.

Remember, every action counts.