Join us for a thought-provoking evening commemorating the ten-year anniversary of the landmark judgment on Tony Nicklinson's right to die, featuring former Supreme Court President Lady Hale. Co-hosted by My Death, My Decision and Humanists UK, this event will shed light on the imperative need for legal reform in end-of-life choices.

Lady Hale was the first woman to serve as President of the Supreme Court. Renowned for her expertise in constitutional and human rights law – as well as her fabulous choice of brooches – she will reflect on the significance of the Nicklinson case and its enduring impact on the discourse surrounding assisted dying. As one of the justices involved in the historic ruling, Lady Hale brings unparalleled insight into the complexities of this deeply personal and ethically charged issue.

Tony Nicklinson, a British man who suffered from locked-in syndrome after a stroke, became a champion of the right-to-die movement. Locked-in syndrome left him paralysed and unable to communicate except through blinking. Despite his debilitating condition, Tony expressed a strong desire to end his life but was unable to do so without assistance. His case garnered nationwide attention as it posed one of the most important ethical questions of the century – why should Tony have been forced to suffer?

The judgment in Nicklinson's case confronted the fundamental question of individual autonomy and the right to a dignified death. While the Supreme Court ultimately ruled against Tony’s right to die, the case sparked significant public debate and propelled the issue of assisted dying to the forefront of legal and ethical discourse. The judgment underscored the urgent need for legislative clarity and compassion in addressing the complex realities of end-of-life decisions.

Against the backdrop of an enormous wave of both public and political support for assisted dying, this event will delve into the compelling arguments for legislative change. Lady Hale will sit down with Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson, and through engaging discussions and expert perspectives, you will gain a deeper understanding of the current legal landscape surrounding end-of-life decisions and the pressing need for compassionate reform.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most influential legal minds in British history. Book now.

About Humanists UK

Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by 120,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.

About My Death, My Decision

'My Death, My Decision is a grassroots movement for assisted dying reform. We want a compassionate law on assisted dying that permits a medically assisted death to adults of sound mind who are terminally ill or intolerably suffering. We believe reform is necessary to reduce the suffering of individuals who are close to death, and, just as importantly, to give choice to those with physical, incurable conditions who face years of constant pain or suffering that they find unbearable.'