Burnham Calls for Social Care Reform Before Assisted Dying Legislation
Andy Burnham has stated that the discussion on assisted dying should be postponed until improvements are made in palliative and social care.
By The Guardian
Andy Burnham has asserted that the debate surrounding assisted dying should be deferred until the issues within palliative care and social care are addressed. During a speech at a care home in north London, the Prime Minister described the introduction of legislation on assisted dying as 'very challenging' while the care system remains inadequate.
Burnham emphasised the need for a future debate on assisted dying but insisted that funding for palliative and social care must be resolved first. He stated that individuals should not be expected to engage in discussions about significant changes until they are assured of receiving proper care.
His comments were part of a broader discussion on social care reform, an area he is keen to prioritise. Burnham linked the need for reform to end-of-life support, indicating that this should be the immediate focus.
Previously, as Mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham expressed that he would likely have supported a private member's bill on assisted dying. He abstained from a 2015 vote on similar legislation during his time as an MP, citing concerns about safeguards and the potential for vulnerable individuals to feel pressured.
Burnham's recent remarks may influence Labour MPs as they prepare for a vote on the latest version of the assisted dying bill, which has sparked divisions within the party. He stated, 'I take the view that that debate... should happen after we fix the funding of palliative care and social care.'
He acknowledged that his personal experiences, particularly with his father in a care home with dementia, have shaped his perspective on the issue. Burnham noted that while he supports the principle of assisted dying, he believes that proper funding for hospices must be established before any new laws are enacted.
The proponents of the assisted dying bill, including MP Lauren Edwards, plan to proceed with the vote in September. However, Burnham's cautious stance has resonated with some Labour MPs who oppose the bill, such as Jess Asato, who expressed shared concerns about its practical implications.
Burnham indicated that his plans for social care reform might necessitate tax increases, although he believes that integrating the NHS and care systems could lead to initial efficiencies. He reiterated his commitment to adhere to Labour's manifesto on tax for the current parliament.
He has invited representatives from the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties for discussions in Downing Street, acknowledging the need for potential compromises. Burnham stated, 'We are in a difficult world from a financial point of view... if I want to persuade others and get a cross-party consensus, you don’t just go in and say: ‘It’s got to be my way, and that’s it.’
In an ideal scenario, Burnham expressed that no one should have to sell their home to pay for care, a concern he aimed to address with his previous proposals. He described the current system as 'horrendous' for families who witness their loved ones' assets diminish while receiving inadequate care.
Burnham has called for a factual debate on social care reform, urging for a considered discussion based on facts rather than sensationalist media coverage. He announced that Louise Casey would expedite her independent review into social care options to summer 2027, and that a fair pay agreement for care staff would be the first step towards aligning the sector with NHS standards. Additionally, Yvette Cooper, the new health secretary, will appoint a dementia adviser this summer.