New Poll Highlights Shifting Views on End-of-Life Choices and Legalisation of Assisted Dying

A recent study reveals that nearly two-thirds of adults in England and Wales support the legalisation of assisted dying for terminally ill patients within the next five years. However, the data shows that there is significant moral complexity surrounding the issue, with many expressing concerns over potential pressure on vulnerable individuals.

The survey, conducted by King’s College London’s Policy Institute and the Complex Life and Death Decisions group, comes as a Bill proposing end-of-life choices is set to be introduced to Parliament next week, marking the first such initiative in almost a decade. Although 63% of respondents supported the legalisation, 20% expressed opposition, and 17% remained undecided.

The findings also highlighted generational divides, with younger people less likely to support assisted dying. Among those who are in favour, key motivations include reducing pain and providing dignity at the end of life, while 72% believe the law should allow people the autonomy to decide when and how they die.

On the other hand, the survey reveals that 72% of opponents are concerned about the risk of vulnerable individuals being coerced into choosing assisted death. Concerns about the lack of proper end-of-life care also featured prominently, with 83% of supporters highlighting the inadequacy of palliative care as a crucial reason for their stance.

The research further indicates that while a majority of people back the legalisation of assisted dying, they are wary of its implications. More than half (55%) of those in support said they might reconsider if it was found that individuals were pressured into such decisions. Furthermore, 48% of supporters would change their position if a person’s choice was influenced by a lack of access to alternative care options.

The survey also suggests significant demographic variations, with 68% of individuals aged 35 and over in favour of legalisation, while only 50% of those aged 18 to 34 agreed. Additionally, there is a marked difference between ethnic groups, with 66% of white respondents supporting the law change, compared to just 46% among ethnic minorities.

Despite the moral and ethical concerns, 59% of respondents agreed that assisted dying should be available on the NHS, while a majority (55%) supported the option for private healthcare providers to offer assisted death services. However, most expressed opposition to the use of public funds for such services.

As the debate continues, experts suggest that while the majority are in favour of change, the public’s views may shift due to ongoing concerns about the availability of quality care and the potential risks of legalising assisted dying.

In the coming weeks, MPs will vote on the Bill, and the public’s views, as shown in this study, will play a pivotal role in shaping the debate.