Durham backed on living will decision

The Commission for Social Care Inspection has backed Durham
Council’s decision to follow a severely ill woman’s wishes by not
intervening to save her life.

The former teacher, who has multiple sclerosis, made a living will
refusing all life-prolonging treatment when she found out she would
become dependent on carers.

The council instructed its carers to abide by the will and not to
try to save the woman, known as Mrs C, if she started to choke to
death.

A registered service provider made a complaint to the CSCI that
there could be criminal implications in the council’s instructions
to staff.

But after reviewing the case, the commission found in favour of the
council.

A CSCI spokesperson said the “proper process” had been followed,
with the council seeking legal advice before coming to its
decision.