96% of UK public think terminally-ill should have the right to choose assisted dying

The latest research by Final Duties, the UK’s most experienced probate brokers, has found that 96% of the UK public believe someone who is terminally ill should have the right to opt for assisted dying.

Just last week, a private members bill progressed to the House of Keys which would give terminally-ill residents on the Isle of Man the right to die.

The survey of the UK public, commissioned by Final Duties, has found that the overwhelming majority would agree should similar steps be taken across mainland UK.

The survey found that 96% agree with the choice of assisted dying in cases of terminal illness.

75% believe that those with a terminal illness in the UK should have the right to choose assisted dying if they so wish, with a further 23% supporting the choice if the person in question is in pain or suffering.

What’s more, just one in five think assisted dying should only be an option if the person in question has six months or less to live, with 81% supporting the choice for those with a terminal illness regardless of the prognosis.

89% also believe that the option of assisted dying should be solely the choice of the person in question, while one in 10 think that family members should also have to agree.

Interestingly, half of those surveyed do believe that medical professionals should have a say on the decision.

Managing Director of Final Duties, Jack Gill, commented:

“The topic of assisted dying is incredibly sensitive and one that certainly shouldn’t be viewed lightly.

However, it is a subject that has come to the forefront increasingly in recent years, with a number of countries passing laws to allow it in various forms.

The Isle of Man could be the next to follow suit and it would appear that the vast majority of the public would also be in favour of such laws for those suffering from a terminal illness here in the UK.”