MPs have today voted in favour of legalising assisted dying in England and Wales.

This means there is a strong possibility that the bill will become law. However, it will first have to go to the House of Lords, where they will have the opportunity to put forward changes.

If the bill is passed, the courts and NHS will have four years to prepare before assisted dying is introduced.

Cath Stanley BEM, Chief Executive of the Huntington’s Disease Association, said:

‘If the assisted dying bill is passed following today’s vote, our priority will be to work with people affected by Huntington’s disease to influence how the legislation is implemented and to ensure adequate safeguards are put in place.  We're also calling for better support for people with Huntington’s disease as they reach the end of their lives. This is particularly important, given the challenges that people with rare, neurodegenerative conditions can face in accessing effective palliative care.

This legislation will only apply to people with Huntington’s disease if they are expected to die within six months and have mental capacity to make that choice.

We recognise that assisted dying is a really difficult topic for many families affected by Huntington’s disease. So please get in touch with us if you need help. No matter the outcome of today’s bill we are here to support you.