Assisted dying legislation is progressing through the UK Parliament (covering England and Wales) and the Scottish Parliament. Politicians on the Isle of Man have also debated the issue and the legislation now needs Royal Assent to become law. Legislation is also being developed on Jersey.

There is currently no legislation being developed for Northern Ireland or Guernsey.

No matter where you work or your specialism, we’re advocating for safeguards to protect you and ensure the highest standards of care for patients and service users.

Use this page to help you navigate this sensitive topic.

Assisted dying happens when someone who is terminally ill or enduring unbearable suffering asks for, and is provided with, assistance to end their life.

At the moment, it's not legal in the UK or Crown Dependencies. It is legal in some other countries, including Spain, Australia and New Zealand.

In England and Wales the assisted dying bill – officially called the Terminally Ill Adults (End of life) Bill – is being considered and debated by politicians. If it becomes law, assisted dying would be allowed in certain strict circumstances.

What the bill proposes

For full details, read the full Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25

Assisted dying in Scotland

Assisted dying is not currently legal in Scotland. The Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill is being considered and debated by politicians. The Scottish bill is separate and different to the English/Welsh bill.

Key differences in the Scottish bill

For full details, read the full Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill

Assisted dying on the Isle of Man

Assisted dying is not currently legal on the Isle of Man. But the Assisted Dying Bill 2023 has progressed further than the bills in England and Scotland. If the bill receives Royal Assent, assisted dying could become legal on the Isle of Man in a couple of years.

Key differences in the Isle of Man bill

Join our next event on this topic on the Isle of Man

This is a very emotive question that can make you feel uncomfortable. It is important to understand why a patient is asking this question. Begin by listening with empathy and without judgment. Explore the patient’s concerns—whether they relate to pain, fear, loss of dignity, or emotional distress.

Do not offer advice or take any action that could be construed as assisting suicide, which is a criminal offence under the Suicide Act 1961. Instead, reassure the patient that their concerns are being taken seriously and refer them to the palliative care or mental health team for further support.

No. It is not illegal to discuss a patient’s fears or concerns about dying. Open and honest communication is essential in providing person-centred, holistic care. However, encouraging, facilitating, or promoting assisted dying is illegal. Ensure that any discussion stays within the bounds of ethical and legal practice.

They may have concerns or fears about the dying process and use this as a way to seek support and clarity. In this situation, it is important to ask open-ended questions to further explore their feelings.

Questions such as “Can you tell me more about how you're feeling?” can help determine whether the patient is experiencing psychological distress, inadequate symptom control, or a deeper existential crisis. It is important to listen and allow them space to share these concerns with you.

No. Referring a patient to an assisted dying organisation could be legally interpreted as assisting suicide. Instead, focus on exploring their concerns and ensure they have access to specialist palliative care services, psychological support and spiritual care.

It is essential to document a summary of the conversations you have had with the patient about assisted dying. This should include key points of the conversation, including what the patient said, how you responded, any concerns identified, and referrals made.

Avoid speculation and record facts to protect both the patient and your professional integrity. Ensure documentation is objective and factual and meets the standards required by your governing body.

Yes, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Code of Conduct (2018)  requires you to prioritise patient well-being, work within legal boundaries, and provide compassionate care. It is your responsibility to work within the Code of Conduct and ensure that you are addressing all domains: 

• Prioritise people 
• Practise effectively 
• Preserve safety 
• Promote professionalism and trust 

Nurses must work within the law, uphold public trust, and support patients through compassionate, ethical care.

No. As with any other aspect of care delivery, the nurse's role is to advocate for the patient while remaining professionally neutral. Any discussions regarding assisted dying must remain neutral and professional, centred on the patient’s needs rather than your personal beliefs.

Expressing personal opinions may influence or distress patients and is considered a breach of professional boundaries. Focus on the patient’s concerns and offer support within the legal framework.

Caring for patients with end-of-life concerns can be emotionally challenging. It is important to take time to recognise the impact this can have on your own emotional well-being. A variety of resources are available to support your well-being, including:

• Peer support through team debriefs or reflective practice
• Clinical supervision for guided reflection
• Restorative supervision with professional nurse advocates in your area of practice
• Employee Wellbeing Services
• Educational support through the RCN, Hospice UK, and local palliative care networks
• >Accessing psychological support from your GP
• NHS Talking Therapy services
• Staff health and wellbeing Northern Ireland
• Nurse Lifeline: 0808 801 0455
• NHS England staff support helpline: text FRONTLINE 85258
• Breathing Space Scotland: 0800 83 85 87

Repetition may indicate unresolved suffering, loneliness, or a sense of hopelessness. Continue to respond with empathy, involve the multidisciplinary team, and assess for reversible causes such as pain, depression, or spiritual distress. Ongoing support and a coordinated care approach are key. It is important to ensure you acknowledge this distress and do not dismiss them.

The most essential skill in these situations is your communication skills. The aim of these conversations is not to provide solutions but to acknowledge and listen to their concerns and distress. There are a range of communication skills and palliative care training available. You can access this in a variety of ways:

• Enrol in palliative care and communication skills courses In your local area
• Enrol in online End of Life Care for All (e-ELCA), which is available from eLearning for health
• Enrol in communication skills courses within your local areas such as Sage and Thyme
• Access resources from the NHS, Hospice UK, NICE guidelines, and RCN
• Reflect regularly on their practice with trusted mentors or supervisors