Inclusion Scotland’s Assisted Dying Bill Briefing

Inclusion Scotland is a Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO), run and led by disabled people. We work to ensure disabled people are fully included and recognised as equal citizens. 

The Assisted Dying Bill has cleared the first two stages in the Scottish Parliament, causing deep concern in the disability community. 

International evidence shows the risks are real especially where social care is underfunded, access to services is unequal, and poverty pressures people’s choices. A law alone will not keep people safe. 

Polling shows 65% (1) of disabled people fear that ongoing benefit cuts could push those in poverty toward assisted suicide, not out of choice but desperation. 

We believe Scotland should focus on enabling everyone to live well with dignity and respect, not expanding the risks. 

Inclusion Scotland opposes the Assisted Dying Bill because disabled people deserve protection, equality, and the right to live safely. 

Click here to read Inclusion Scotland’s Assisted Dying Bill Brief in full.

Click here for the plain text version of Inclusion Scotland’s Assisted Dying Bill Brief.

(1) Not Dead Yet UK, 2025. New polling reveals widespread concern assisted suicide will have a negative impact on disabled people and many will die early as a result. Available online at: https://www.notdeadyetuk.org/post/new-polling-reveals-widespread-concern-assisted-suicide-will-have-a-negative-impact-on-disabled-peop