Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has lent his support to help improve the lives of people in Scotland living with terminal illness.  

Meeting with representatives from Marie Curie, the terminal illness charity, Mr Swinney heard about efforts to encourage people to think about their wishes for the end of their life and the importance of discussing their preferences with loved ones. 

The charity has published a free information resource to support conversations called ‘You Matter’, available to download from mariecurie.org.uk/youmatter.

Marie Curie believes that starting with a simple conversation over cake and a cuppa can help tackle the stigma that exists around dying, death and bereavement. Coinciding with their fundraising campaign Blooming Great Tea Party this month Marie Curie is encouraging people to ask friends, colleagues and family round for a tea party, bake sale or ‘Bake off’ style competition. Every donation raised at events help Marie Curie provide vital care and support to people living with terminal illness.  

Last year there were over 600 Blooming Great Tea Party events in Scotland raising over £86,000, equating to over 4,300 hours of Marie Curie Nursing care.

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

“Whilst death may be an uncomfortable topic of conversation, it is vital that we all have plans in place to ensure we receive the end-of-life care that we need.

“The work that Marie Curie are undertaking to end the stigma that exists around this subject is massively important, and I wholeheartedly support their efforts. I was delighted to sign their pledge to improve the lives of those in Scotland living with a terminal illness, and I look forward to supporting Marie Curie as they continue their excellent work.”

Susan Lowes, Marie Curie Policy & Public Affairs Manager Scotland added:

“Sadly one in four people in Scotland aren’t getting the care they need at the end of their lives. By encouraging people to start with a simple conversation about their wishes we hope that we can empower everyone to play their part in improving end of life care. There’s only one chance to get this right at the end of someone’s life, and everyone matters in making that a reality.”