Wirral Hospice St John’s Position Statement on Assisted Dying

In accordance with the law, Wirral Hospice St John’s would never now, or in the future, be involved in the provision of assisted death of a person under its care.

The ethos of hospice and palliative care, as defined by the World Health Organization, is that it ‘intends neither to hasten nor postpone death.’ This philosophy is a cornerstone of hospice care in the UK.

This statement makes no value judgment about assisted dying or the people who make requests for assisted dying. Our organisation recognises that some individuals may wish to pursue this option for themselves in certain circumstances. Individuals holding such views should be assured that they will not be excluded from accessing the services at Wirral Hospice because of them.

Dr Emma Longford
Consultant in Palliative Medicine & Medical Director, Wirral Hospice St John’s

Date: 22.08.23