Parkinson's and the debate on assisted suicide

Assisted suicide in the news

There is ongoing public debate about assisted suicide and euthanasia throughout the UK. This follows recent court cases, and high profile media stories.

In Scotland, Margo MacDonald MSP - who has Parkinson's - has proposed legislation to allow assisted suicide for people with terminal or degenerative conditions, or those who are unexpectedly incapacitated. The Scottish Parliament is considering her Bill.

Assisted suicide and Parkinson's

We recognises that for many people affected by Parkinson's, this is a difficult and emotive topic.

We have held a neutral position on end of life decisions for some years, taking the view that wherever possible, and within the framework of the law, the decisions and wishes of people with Parkinson's should be respected.

We are working with people who are affected by Parkinson's to make sure our position reflects the current context and the full range of views in this area.

Opinion polls show that people in the UK have differing views about end of life decisions, informed by personal, social and cultural factors. Parkinson's affects individuals from all backgrounds. We believe that it is important that we support everyone affected by Parkinson's, whatever their standpoint.

If changes to the law on assisted suicide or euthanasia are proposed, we will argue for safeguards to protect the interests of people with Parkinson's.

We will continue to campaign to ensure that people with Parkinson's receive the information and support they need to make decisions about their end of life care, and for access to palliative care services for people with Parkinson's.

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