Latest editorial
CAMPAIGNERS cried victory yesterday after the Supreme Court ruled in favour of single homeless people no longer having to prove they are more vulnerable than others in order to get support. The “landmark decision” came after a long-running legal challenge to the way councils process housing applications.
Until recently councils would request candidates to pass the Pereira Test, which assessed how “vulnerable” a homeless person is. But charities Crisis and Shelter considered it a “scandal” that any homeless person would be deemed not vulnerable as a result.
Crisis chief executive Jon Sparkes said: “During our intervention in this case, the court heard evidence of just how horrific a homeless person’s life has to be before they qualify for council help. “They are over nine times more likely to commit suicide and 13 times more likely to be a victim of violence.
Evidence to peers from medical leaders, patient safety officials and the children’s commissioner has intensified fears that the Bill’s safeguards are inadequate, writes ADAM JAMES POLLOCK
GEOFF BOTTOMS, who has worked in a palliative care hospice for 11 years, argues the postcode lottery for proper end-of-life care must be ended to give the terminally ill choice and agency
Campaigners vow to keep up fight against Assisted Dying Bill as it clears House of Commons