In June, the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill passed its first vote at Holyrood. For Humanist Society Scotland, this represents a major milestone on a decades-long journey. Humanism as an ethical position supports secularism, human rights and bodily autonomy. This encompasses the right for terminally ill people to end their lives on their own terms, free from pain, indignity, and trauma. Joe Higgins, Policy and Campaigns Officer at HSS, will discuss the humanist approach to assisted dying, provide an overview of the proposed legislation, and talk through some of the most common misconceptions about end-of-life choice.
About the speaker: Joe joined Humanist Society Scotland as Policy and Campaigns Officer in January 2024. His work includes developing the charity’s policy platform and engaging with policymakers on a range of key humanist issues. He previously worked at the Scottish Parliament and has a MA (Hons) in Scandinavian Studies and Social Policy from the University of Edinburgh.
Attendance is free. No ticket is required. We operate on a first come first served basis. It's relatively rare that we fill up the function room, but please be aware that if things are looking busy, the earlier you get there the less chance there is of not getting in.
Although the event is free, we will be asking for donations at the end of the talk. Participants are under no obligation whatsoever to donate, however please rest assured that the money we collect doesn't end up in anyone's pocket - it is used to fund our overhead costs, and travel/accommodation for our speakers who come from further afield.
Accessibility: The Admiral Woods Bar now has a functioning lift which can take wheelchair users (or others who are unable to manage stairs) down to the function room. There is also a disabled toilet in the function room area.
