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Politicians set to debate Assisted Dying Bill

Terminally-ill patients could be allowed to choose to die, if the Scottish parliament passes a bill on the issue.

Politicians will debate the matter in Holyrood tomorrow (Tuesday) afternoon, with MSPs given the freedom to vote how they want.

This comes three months after a healthcare professional spoke to The Shetland Times as 25 medical experts gave evidence against the Assisted Dying Bill.

Consultant general surgeon Stuart Fergusson and 24 of his colleagues said they were “deeply concerned” about plans to legalise suicide for terminally-ill patients.

“It’s an appalling shift in my professional role that one of my statutory duties would be helping people kill themselves,” he told this newspaper.

This Bill was brought forward by Orkney MSP Liam McArthur, while earlier this year a bill by MP Kim Leadbeater cleared its first hurdles at Westminster.

Back in February, The Shetland Times conducted a poll on the issue, with 58 per cent said they were against introducing assisted dying.

Pick up Friday’s edition of The Shetland Times for reaction to tomorrow’s debate.

Community is key to improve mental health

Building “strong connections” can help ease the burden, NHS Shetland health improvement team leader Nicola Balfour said to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.

The health board is announced it was proud to support the campaign, set up by the charity Mental health Foundation, which runs from today (Monday) until Sunday 18th May.

And this year’s focus is on the power and importance of community.

NHS Shetland said mental health was much like physical well being — both needed to be looked after. And there are times someone’s mental health can be in a better condition than another’s.

However, in the isles there is a “strong sense” of community, with the health board urging people to think about their community or to seek out people with shared interests to boost mental health.

“They can provide us with a sense of belonging, safety, and support at different stages of our lives, making us feel good about ourselves and improving our physical and mental health,” Ms Balfour said.

It can be “challenging” to discuss worries or concerns with others, she said but it was important to be “informed” and “aware” of what is going on around you to consider what support is available or what you can do to help.

Accessing resources to get support was also an issue, which left people unsure of where to turn to when in need of help. It was also important to address the “stigma” surrounding mental health, to releive pressure on those who might benefit from connecting with people and the community.

Ms Balfour added: “We encourage people to take their time and have good conversations. The Samaritans TALK tips provide a helpful prompt. T – Take your time, A – Ask for support, remember, you are never alone, L – Let others help, you are not a burden, K – Keep it real and be honest about how you are feeling.”