Dignity in Dying commends Norman Lamb MP’s decision to set up an independent review of end-of-life care

Care and Support Minister Norman Lamb MP yesterday committed to an independent review of end-of-life decision making following the recent criticism of the Liverpool Care Pathway (LCP). Mr Lamb said that the LCP is an important tool in ensuring that dying people can have as dignified and pain free a death as possible, but that lessons could be learned in this review to ensure that end of life care is as good as it can be.

Sarah Wootton, Chief Executive of Dignity in Dying said:

“I am pleased that the Department of Health has taken a sensible approach to recent criticisms of the LCP; calling for an independent review into reported bad practice whilst recognising that, when used correctly, the LCP can help ensure that many people experience a dignified death.

“Understandable fears about the LCP, specifically around communication, training and targets must be answered. But in doing so we must remember that what people want is more choice and control at the end of life, not less.”

Ends.

Notes to editor:

Dignity in Dying:

• Dignity in Dying campaigns for greater choice, control and access to services at the end of life. It advocates providing terminally ill adults with the option of an assisted death, within strict legal safeguards, and for universal access to high quality end-of-life care.
• Dignity in Dying has over 25,000 supporters and receives its funding entirely from donations from the public.

Media Contacts:

For media enquiries please contact Jo Cartwright on 020 7479 7737 / 07725433025 or at jo.cartwright@dignityindying.org.uk