1. Thousands more individual supporters
Our support base grows daily. In addition to the thousands of you who have been receiving eNewsletters throughout 2007, this month we are pleased to be emailing an additional 5,000 new supporters. Welcome to you all.
2. New member organisations
Care Not Killing now has 48 member organisations from a wide range of different backgrounds: medical and non-medical associations, human rights and disability rights organisations, and faith groups. This month we are pleased to announce increased faith-group support with a second Buddhist organisation joining us, further broadening our diversity.
3. Cambridge debate
Our spokespeople have been busy. 22nd September saw our campaign director, Dr Peter Saunders, debating against the motion This house would legalise euthanasia at the Cambridge Union Society. Representatives of Dignity in Dying were amongst those speaking in favour of the motion. Details of the debate, including the speeches opposing the motion, will be available on our website soon.
4. Misleading report
We note with concern the Journal of Medical Ethics' recent publication of a paper that claims to disprove the slippery slope phenomenon. CNK took part in discussions on Radio Scotland, Radio Five Live, BBC Online and on regional radio to address the bias in this review. See our detailed response for further details.
5. Forthcoming events
October will see our spokespeople busy at various regional events including the Mayor's Disability Capital conference on 10th October. From 4th to 6th October we will be hosting a stand at the Royal College of General Practitioners' annual conference in Edinburgh, promoting our aims amongst RCGP members.
On the international front, we are gearing up to the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition's International Symposium in Toronto, Canada from 30th November to 1st December.
6. Can you help?
Our work is really taking off. We are now looking for volunteers to come into our London office and work alongside our regular staff. Do you live near London and have a few spare hours a week? Please get in contact with our office, either by phone on 020 7234 9680 or by email. References will be required.
7. Action points
As always, we urge you to…
• Stay informed. Although the Joffe Bill was defeated last year, we expect further legislation to start making its way through Parliament soon.
• Speak up. As and when media stories break, write to newspapers and politicians. Medical members can also write to BMA News and the medical journals and magazines.
• Fundraise. Last year we achieved a huge amount on a very tight budget. We continue to be grateful for every donation, no matter how small.
• Organise. Are you in a position to organise an awareness-raising event? We have spokespeople all over the country. Why not ring us on 020 7234 9680 or drop us an email to discuss your ideas and requirements?
Care Not Killing
