Christian group CARE criticises ‘robust safeguards’ of Assisted Dying Bill

The Christian advocacy group CARE has raised concerns over the “robust safeguards” outlined in the new assisted dying legislation, questioning whether they will adequately prevent harm. The bill, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, would allow terminally ill adults with less than six months to live to seek medical assistance to end their lives, provided they are mentally competent and receive approval from two doctors and the High Court.

Leadbeater has emphasized that the focus is on “shortening death” rather than “ending life,” claiming the bill includes the strictest safeguards in the world. The legislation excludes individuals with mental health conditions, and patients must self-administer the medication to ensure the decision is voluntary.

Jamie Gillies, CARE’s Head of Campaigns and Media, expressed concerns about the potential for the law to expand, citing international examples where eligibility criteria have widened over time. He questioned the accuracy of six-month prognoses, highlighting cases where patients outlived their predictions, and warned about the risk of vulnerable individuals feeling pressured into assisted dying due to subtle coercion or economic reasons.

Former Director of Public Prosecutions Sir Max Hill, however, called the bill a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” arguing that current laws force some to seek assisted dying abroad or consider unregulated options. The bill is set for debate in Parliament on 29th November.