Feedback sought on assisted dying standards

A three-month consultation on the standards for the proposed assisted dying law has been launched.

The Jersey Care Commission said the consultation would give islanders and care providers an opportunity to provide feedback before the standards are finalised in 2027.

A law to allow terminally ill adults the right to choose to end their own lives was approved in Jersey in February.

Chair of the Jersey Care Commission Nigel Acheson encouraged islanders to contribute to the consultation which is set to close on 18 December.

The care commission will be responsible for the independent regulation of the Jersey Assisted Dying Service.

This will include setting clear standards for the service, registering the service providers, ensuring annual independent inspections and providing ongoing regulatory oversight.

The regulator said the proposed standards would "help set clear expectations about how the service should be provided".

That included what providers must do to meet the expectations of people who use the service and the requirements under the law.

The commission said it would also provide the framework against which to independently inspect the service.

Acheson said independent regulation was "crucial role in providing assurance about the quality and safety of care and in supporting public confidence".

The law approved by the States says assisted dying would be an option for adults who meet strict criteria, which includes being an island resident for at least 12 months and having the mental capacity to make the decision.

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