Organ donation is the act of giving an organ to someone who needs a transplant to survive or improve their quality of life. It’s one of the most generous and life-changing gifts a person can give — saving or transforming thousands of lives across the UK every year. However, this vital work depends on people making the decision to donate, and on families supporting that choice.
Visit the NHS Organ Donation websiteTypes of Organ Donation
There are three main ways you can donate:
1. Donation after Brain Death (DBD)
This occurs when a person has sustained a severe brain injury and is confirmed as having died through neurological testing. Although the person’s heart may still be beating with the help of a ventilator, they have permanently lost all brain function and capacity for consciousness.
2. Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD)
This happens when a person dies after their heart stops beating and cannot be restarted. It may follow a cardiac arrest or the planned withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment in a critical care setting, when further treatment is no longer in the person’s best interests.
3. Living donation
Some organs and tissues can be donated while you are still alive. Most commonly, this includes a kidney, part of the liver or lung, or donated tissue such as bone from a hip or knee replacement or amniotic membrane (from the placenta).
Organ donation law in England
On 20 May 2020, the law around organ donation in England was changed to allow more people to save more lives. The opt-out system for organ donation means all adults are considered potential organ donors unless they have recorded a decision not to donate or are in an excluded group. Families are still consulted, and your faith, beliefs, and personal wishes are always respected. It’s important to talk to your loved ones so they know your decision. You can read more about the changes in organ donation law on the Organ Donation website.