What are the eligibility criteria for assisted dying in the UK?

# Eligibility Criteria for Assisted Dying in the UK Assisted dying, a term that encompasses both assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia, has been a topic of significant debate in the UK, especially concerning its legal framework. The eligibility criteria for individuals seeking assisted dying in England and Wales are clearly defined under proposed legislation, although discussions and amendments continue to evolve. Below are the key eligibility criteria as they currently stand: ## Basic Requirements 1. **Age and Residency**: Individuals must be **over 18 years old** and a **resident of England or Wales**. Additionally, they must have been registered with a General Practitioner (GP) for at least **12 months** prior to their request for assisted dying[^2]. 2. **Mental Capacity**: The individual must possess the **mental capacity** to make an informed decision regarding their end-of-life choice. This means they must be able to express a **clear, settled, and informed wish** to end their life, free from any coercion or undue pressure[^2][^4]. 3. **Terminal Illness**: The individual must be diagnosed with a **terminal illness**, which is defined as a condition from which they are expected to die within **six months**. This requirement aims to ensure that the law is applied to those who are facing imminent death[^2][^3]. 4. **Declarations**: Individuals must make **two separate declarations** regarding their wish to die. These declarations need to be witnessed and signed to ensure authenticity and clarity of intent[^2]. 5. **Medical Assessments**: To qualify for assisted dying, individuals must undergo assessments by **two independent doctors**. Each assessment must take place with at least **seven days** between them to allow for careful consideration and reflection on the decision being made[^2][^4]. ## Recent Amendments and Proposals While the current criteria focus on terminal illnesses with a prognosis of six months or fewer, there have been proposals to amend these regulations. A notable proposal seeks to allow individuals suffering from certain **neurodegenerative diseases**, such as Motor Neurone Disease and Parkinson's Disease, to qualify for assisted dying if their prognosis is **up to 12 months**. This amendment aims to address the specific needs of patients whose conditions may deteriorate rapidly, potentially leaving them without the capacity to make a request before their condition becomes unmanageable[^1][^3]. ## Summary In summary, the eligibility criteria for assisted dying in the UK focus on ensuring that only adults who are terminally ill, with the capacity to make informed decisions, can opt for this pathway. While the current focus is predominantly on those expected to die within six months, ongoing legislative discussions may lead to broader access for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions. These criteria reflect a balance between the autonomy of individuals facing terminal illness and the ethical considerations surrounding assisted dying. For further information, the complete details about the proposed changes and current regulations can be found in the following resources: - [Assisted Dying Bill Committee: A guide to the changes to the Bill - My Death, My Decision](https://mydeath-mydecision.org.uk/2025/03/26/assisted-dying-bill-committee-a-guide-to-the-changes-to-the-bill)[^1] - [What is assisted dying and how could the law change? - BBC](https://bbc.com/news/uk-47158287)[^2] - [Amendment to allow assisted dying at 12 months left to live - My Death, My Decision](https://mydeath-mydecision.org.uk/2025/02/06/amendment-to-allow-assisted-dying-at-12-months-left-to-live-for-those-with-neurodegenerative-illnesses)[^3] - [On the Assisted Dying Bill - St Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church](https://stmarysloughborough.org.uk/2025/03/28/on-the-assisted-dying-bill)[^4] [^1]: Details on eligibility for assisted dying in the UK. [^2]: Outlines eligibility criteria for assisted dying. [^3]: Details on eligibility for assisted dying with proposed amendments. [^4]: Overview of the Assisted Dying Bill and its implications.