Organ Donation

From the 15th March 2020 organ donation in England changed to an opt-out system. The Organ Donation Act means adults in England will be considered potential donors unless they choose to opt-out or are in an excluded group. The act is known as Max and Keira’s law in honour of a boy who received a heart transplant and the girl who donated it.

Those excluded from the new plans include:

  • Children under 18
  • People who lack the mental capacity to understand the changes for a significant period before their death
  • People who have not lived in England for at least 12 months before their death

Those ineligible to be donors include those who have are suspected to have:

  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)
  • Ebola virus disease
  • Active cancer
  • HIV

It is still possible to opt-out of being an organ donor either online or by phone. If you do wish to be an organ donor it is also possible to detail your preferences to ensure your culture and beliefs are respected. Please visit the organ donation website or telephone: 0300 123 23 23

PLEASE NOTE: It is also very important to make your specific wishes regarding organ donation known to your family and friends.

Published: Mar 15, 2020