Organ donation key messages

2 minutes now could save up to 9 lives

Most of us would accept an organ if we needed one, wouldn’t we? Or we would want one to be available if a loved one needed a transplant.

Sadly, right now, over 8,500 people are currently waiting for a transplant in the UK. The waiting list has never been higher, and someone dies every day waiting for a transplant.

Did you know, you are much more likely to need a transplant than to ever be an organ donor?

That often surprises people, though the fact is organ donation is exceptionally rare. Most people won’t die in circumstances where they could become a donor.

That’s why each donation is a remarkable gift, from one family to another.

We need more people to confirm their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register, to help save and improve more lives. 

This is crucial because a recorded decision provides certainty for families at an incredibly difficult time.

Family support is vital to ensure that organ donation goes ahead.

Often, their loved one has died suddenly and unexpectedly, so knowing that they wanted to be an organ donor can offer clear guidance for the family to follow. 

9 in 10 families support organ donation if they know what their loved one wanted

Many opportunities to help patients are lost though, because people haven’t confirmed their organ donation decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register.

In those situations, families often say no to donation, because they don’t know what their loved one wanted.

There is no age limit for becoming an organ donor and having an illness or medical condition doesn't necessarily prevent a person from donating.

Confirm your organ donation decision at organdonation.nhs.uk or via the NHS App.

Not sure if you're already registered? You can check this in the app!

2 minutes is all it takes to help and you could save up to 9 lives.

It’s the best thing you’ll do today!