THE latest step towards the introduction of assisted dying in Jersey has been taken with the appointment of an independent chair to oversee its implementation.
Earlier this summer, the assisted-dying laws received Royal Assent, marking one of the final constitutional hurdles for the legislation, following the States Assembly decision to legalise assisted dying in February.
Now, Dr Sarah Wollaston has been appointed as chair of the Assisted Dying Assurance and Delivery Committee. Dr Wollaston has 24 years’ experience delivering care in both hospital and primary care settings, and has previously been an MP and chair of the Health and Care Select Committee in England, as well as chair of NHS Devon.
Dr Wollaston said: “I am honoured to have been appointed to chair the Assisted Dying Assurance and Delivery Committee. I want to make sure that this new service for the residents of Jersey is compassionate and lawful, with well-trained and supported staff, and that everyone involved keeps patients and their loved ones at the heart of everything we all do.”
The committee is a requirement of the Assisted Dying Law, and will have a legal duty to ensure the legislation is implemented and adhered to in full and to assure the Health Minister of the quality and safety of the Assisted Dying service. It will be made up of between seven and 15 committee members, including a member from end-of-life or palliative care services and a representative of patients and/or relatives.
Recruitment to the remainder of the committee will commence in the coming months, now that the chair has been appointed.
Health Minister Tom Binet said: “Dr Wollaston brings extensive clinical experience, a strong understanding of health and care governance and a proven track record of public service. Her role will be to provide independent assurance as the committee oversees the implementation of the law approved by the Assembly.
“This appointment is about ensuring that, as we work towards the law coming into force, robust safeguards, effective governance and patient safety remain central. I look forward to working with Dr Wollaston and the Committee as they undertake this important responsibility.”
Under the law, assisted dying will be available free of charge through Health and Care Jersey, but only for adults who meet strict eligibility criteria. Applicants must be aged 18 or over, have lived in Jersey for at least 12 months, have a terminal illness expected to cause death within six months – or 12 months for certain neurodegenerative conditions – and have the mental capacity to make the decision.
They must also demonstrate a voluntary, informed and settled wish to end their life, free from coercion, with the legislation requiring multiple assessments and safeguards throughout the process.
