Change the ReSPECT form to a legally binding document

34
signatures
closedDepartment of Health and Social CareOpened 20 March 2026Closed 20 September 2026

Background

We believe the personal and family decisions on a ReSPECT form need to be legally binding so they cannot be overridden by any health professional.

Additional details

After a couple of years of supporting our elderly parents needing medical attention, care and hospital admissions and ReSPECT forms being completed, it has become apparent that some health professionals request that families amend the form to minimise medical intervention and they advocate for Do Not Resuscitate. Medical professionals will ignore the ReSPECT form and wishes if they medically feel it is in the patient’s best interests. We believe this needs to change!

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 761050.