Jersey assisted dying 2024: Jersey Approves Assisted Dying Plan For Terminally ill

Jersey assisted dying 2024: Jersey Approves Assisted Dying Plan For Terminally ill

What Is Assisted Dying?

Assisted dying is a sensitive and complex topic. It involves a person with a terminal illness or experiencing unbearable physical suffering choosing to end their life with the assistance of a medical professional. It is a service provided under specific circumstances set out in law.

Key Dates in the Process:

1. March to June 2021: The Jersey Assisted Dying Citizens’ Jury took place, and an initial report on jury recommendations was published. During this period, a diverse group of citizens deliberated on the ethical, legal, and practical aspects of assisted dying.
2. November 2021: The States Assembly approved assisted dying “in principle.” This decision marked a significant step toward also allowing compassionate choices for those facing terminal illness.
3. Also March and April 2022: Phase 1 of public engagement on assisted dying in Jersey. Islanders had the opportunity to express their views, concerns, and preferences regarding the proposed legislation.
4. 17 October 2022 to 14 January 2023: Phase 2: Public consultation on detailed proposals. The government sought feedback on specific aspects of the legislation, also including eligibility criteria, safeguards, and implementation.
5. 28 April 2023: Publication of the consultation feedback report. The insights gathered from the public and also stakeholders informed the final proposals.
6. 7 November 2023: Publication of the Ethical Review report. An independent review panel also assessed the ethical implications of assisted dyin and provided recommendations.
7. 22 March 2024: Detailed assisted dying proposals presented to the States Assembly. These proposals outlined the legal framework, procedural safeguards, and also eligibility criteria.
8. 21 May 2024: Scheduled date for the debate on assisted dying proposals by the States Assembly. During this debate, legislators will consider the evidence, ethical considerations, and public input before making a decision.

Next Steps:

The detailed proposals for assisted dyin in Jersey are due to be debated on 21 May 2024 These sessions are open to Jersey residents and health professionals. Here are the upcoming dates:

• Public Sessions:
  • Tuesday, 26 March 2024, 12 pm to 12:45 pm and 1 pm to 2 pm at St Paul’s Centre, St Helier.
  • Also Thursday, 25 April 2024, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at St Saviour’s Parish Hall.
  • Thursday, 2 May 2024, 5 pm to 7 pm at St Clement’s Parish Hall.
  • Also Tuesday, 7 May 2024, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at St Helier Town Hall.
  • Tuesday, 14 May 2024, 7 pm to 8:30 pm at Les Quennevais School.
• Health and Care Professionals Sessions:
  • Wednesday, 1 May 2024, 7 pm to 8:30 pm (online engagement session for islanders with long-term conditions and disabled islanders).