The information below is also available in our Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment booklet, which you can also download below.

Download Trinity's Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment leaflet

Do you want to decide now if there is any treatment you would prefer to refuse in the future? If so, you should consider making an Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment.

What does an Advance Decision form look like?

It can be a simple form which you fill in yourself. Trinity staff can show you an example. You are also free to write your own but it must follow a certain format if you decide to refuse life-sustaining treatment.

Who needs to know that I have made an Advance Decision?

You must ensure that the key people and organisations involved in your care have a copy of your ADRT. This will help to avoid difficult
situations, especially if an emergency arises. We can give guidance and support to help you do this. A time may come when you are unable to tell the health professionals involved in your care about your ADRT. This is why you should ensure copies are in relevant medical records.

Can I name someone to make decisions on my behalf if I do not want to or if I become unable to?

Yes. This is called appointing a Lasting Power of Attorney. We have a separate leaflet to advise you how to do this.

Does my Advance Decision need to be witnessed?

Yes. If you are writing an ADRT, your witness must sign it in your presence and should be someone who is independent and has nothing to gain as a consequence of the ADRT. If you cannot sign, you can direct someone to sign for you, in front of you and the witness.

Who should I talk to about the types of treatment I don’t want?

It is advisable to talk your Advance Decision through with your close family, although you are not obliged to do so. To ensure that your
decisions are clear and that you understand the implications, you should also discuss them with the hospice doctor or nurse, or your GP.

Does the doctor have to sign my Advance Decision?

No, but we advise you to include details of the doctor you have discussed the ADRT with as a point of contact for the future.

Can I change my mind?

Yes, you can change your mind about all or any part of your ADRT. Simply inform all the people and organisations that have a copy of your earlier ADRT that it is now invalid and should be destroyed.

Where can I go for further advice and support?

Our Patient and Family Support team will be able to advise you and give you an example form. You can call them on 020 7787 1000.

Download the leaflet about making an advance decision to refuse treatment

We can send hard copies of this leaflet to healthcare professionals and other local partners for free. Click here to place your order.