Register as an organ donor
Record your decision to donate your organs
Organ donation and you – busting the myths
You may have heard that the law around organ donation in England is changing from spring 2020. If this is new information, don’t worry….read on!
It’s vital that everyone has correct and accurate information to enable them to make an informed choice about donating their organs after death. Here are some common questions we’ve been asked:
What is changing?
From spring 2020, all adults in England will be considered to have consented to be an organ donor when they die, unless they have recorded a decision not to donate or are in one of the excluded groups.
Who will be excluded from this?
People under 18, people who have lived in England for less than 12 months or who are not living here voluntarily, and people who lack the capacity to understand the change.
Why is the law changing?
Every day around three people in need of an organ die because not enough organs are available for transplant. The law is being changed to help save and improve more lives.
Am I losing control of what happens to my body?
No. It will still be for you to choose if you want to be an organ donor. If you decide that you don’t want to have your organs donated after your death, you can record this at www.organdonation.nhs.uk or by calling 0300 303 2094.
Will you consider my faith and beliefs?
Yes. Your faith and beliefs will always be taken into consideration before organ donation goes ahead. When you register as an organ donor on the NHS Organ Donor Register, you can now state whether or not you would like the NHS to speak to your family, and anyone else appropriate, about how organ donation can go ahead in line with your faith or belief system.
After spring 2020, will my family still be asked about donating my organs?
Yes. Your family will be involved before donation takes place, so it is really important that you discuss your decision with them so they can support your choice.
Karen agreed to organ donation on behalf of her husband Mark, because she knew his donation decision. Watch their story...