Members of Parliament will debate on a new bill proposing to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales.
The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is up for debate and vote in the House of Commons on November 29.
It suggests making it legal for adults who are terminally ill to be given assistance to end their life under certain conditions, such as having a life expectancy of six months or less.
Residents in Colchester have shared their views on the topic.
Tiffany Northcott, 52, from Shrub End said: “I’m really in two minds. I totally agree with going for it, but there needs to be a lot of regulation around it so people are not getting exploited by it.
"But I also understand how difficult it can be, to see someone pass. When my father passed, it was a peaceful passing, but it could have been a lot worse, so I feel for those who struggle at the end of their lives.”
Retail assistant Emily Balls, 20, from the Hythe area, said: “I think it always depends on the circumstances.
"Being a young carer myself I know how painful it is to see a family member dying not on their own will.
"But allowing them to do it at their own will and under their own conditions, it is almost a good thing.”
Pensioner Steve Pitten, 75, of West Mersea, said: “I have rather mixed feelings about it. Surely, it should be the person’s choice, if they are in a great deal of pain.
"But it can be difficult if relatives are involved, and when the person who is dying is making the decision it can be tough on them.”
Patricia, 75, and Colin Mann, 74, from Barn Hall Avenue, said: “We think people should absolutely have the right to do so if they are terminally ill.”
Patricia added: “If I was in that position, I feel like I would like to have the choice for myself.”
Elizabeth Murnane, 65, of Lexden Road, said: “I don’t agree with it, because it could be open for abuse.
"I understand people are in difficult situations, and some people are desperate, but what if they change their minds? I feel the answer to that is a better focus on palliative care.”
Cafe employee Hailey Emeny, 55, from Colchester, said: “If the bill is passed, I think there will be so many protocols to go through, and it will take a lot of time, which many people who will apply for it don’t have.
“I can understand that there are people who wish to have that option, but it is a difficult topic where it is hard to say 100 per cent yes or no.”
Colchester based Grace Mills, 22, who works in a cafe said: “I think it will allow people to die in dignity, which would be a good thing many wish for.
"But I also wonder, if the bill goes through, if it will open up the debate for a death penalty to be introduced.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here