Response to revised Social Security (Scotland) Bill amendment

Marie Curie and MND Scotland respond to news today (20 April 2018) that the timeframe definition of terminal illness will be removed from the Social Security (Scotland) Bill.

Richard Meade Marie Curie Head of Policy and Public Affairs Scotland said: “Marie Curie has always said that we would like to see a definition of terminal illness based purely on clinical judgment.

"We are delighted that the minister has listened to ours and other’s concerns and made this possible.

"We also want to thank all the opposition MSPs who have continued to make the case for a fairer definition of terminal illness.

“Scotland has a unique opportunity to make a social security system with dignity and fairness at its heart, and this newly agreed definition will be a realisation of that for terminally ill people in Scotland.

"We look forward to working with Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer to support the development of the accompanying guidance.”

Craig Stockton, CEO of MND Scotland, said: “Together with Marie Curie we have always called for a clinical judgement to be made, when defining a terminal illness for Scotland’s social security system.

"We are thrilled that the Scottish Government and MSPs have taken action to ensure a fairer system is put in place for those with a terminal illness.

"When the Bill comes into effect it will make a real difference to people affected by MND in Scotland allowing them to be fast tracked for benefits and removing some of the worry and distress that they currently face. 

“I would like to thank everyone for their support on this issue and for making a real positive change in Scotland’s social security system. We will work closely with Marie Curie and the Chief Medical Officer to ensure the guidelines developed are fair and dignified for all those with a terminal illness.”

Contacts: Gemma Smith

Notes to Editor

About MND Scotland

MND Scotland is the only Scottish charity providing care and support to people affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND), as well as funding research into finding a cure. 

About Marie Curie

Please note – we are now called ‘Marie Curie’ (not Marie Curie Cancer Care) Marie Curie – care and support through terminal illness Marie Curie is the UK’s leading charity for people with any terminal illness.

The charity helps people living with a terminal illness and their families make the most of the time they have together by delivering expert hands-on care, emotional support, research and guidance.

Marie Curie employs more than 2,700 nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals, and with its nine hospices around the UK including Glasgow, is the largest provider of hospice beds outside the NHS.

• For more information visit www.mariecurie.org.uk
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Free Marie Curie Support and Information is available for anyone with questions about terminal illness. Contact 0800 090 2309 or visit mariecurie.org.uk/support