Organ donation is the gift of life. It helps someone who is seriously ill or dying and needs a transplant to survive. The generosity of donors and their families helps nearly 3,000 people in the UK to live on every year. However, more than 9,000 people in the UK actually need an organ transplant.
Nine out of ten people say they agree with organ donation in principle but only two out of ten people have registered to donate organs after they die.
What are donated organs used for?
The kidneys, heart, liver, lungs, pancreas and the small bowel can all be transplanted. Most people waiting for an organ transplant need a kidney, due to a range of serious illnesses. While kidney failure is not usually life-threatening, it brings many problems and symptoms, and affects the quality of life for the patient and those around them.
For people who need another type of organ transplant, such as heart, liver or lung, it is probably their last hope and without a transplant they are likely to die.
How does organ donation work?
To become an organ donor you have to die in hospital. Doctors will always do all they can to save patients – that is their first duty – and only after someone has died will organ donation be considered. If you are on the NHS Organ Donor Register, it makes it easier for medical staff to find out your wishes and discuss them with your relatives.
How can I register my wish to be a donor when I die?
Registering to become a donor is a personal decision. You can join at any age, but until you are 18 (16 in Scotland), your parents would need to agree to your wishes being carried out, so it’s really important to discuss your wishes with your family.
What are the chances of me becoming a donor?
The chances are actually very small because, to donate, you have to die in hospital. Most people die at home but the more people who discuss their wishes and pledge organs by joining the NHS Organ Donor Register, the more people can be saved.
Want to know more?
Watch films of people whose lives have been affected by organ donation
Watch a film about the work of a transplant co-ordinator
Check out our frequently asked questions about organ donation.
