NHS Blood and Transplant welcomes the Government initiative on opt out legislation

The Government has announced a new system of consent for organ and tissue donation.

Anthony Clarkson, Interim Director of Organ Donation and Transplantation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “The decision on opt out legislation in England is a matter for Parliament and any changes will only take place when Parliament agrees to them. Under the proposed system, you would be a donor unless you make it clear that you don’t want to donate.

“There is an urgent shortage of donors and last year 411 people died on the transplant waiting list. We support all activity that increases the availability of donated organs for life saving transplants and we welcome the Government’s commitment to organ donation. NHS Blood and Transplant will work with the Government to ensure that any changes are implemented successfully.

“Whatever system is in place, it will always be important that people talk to their family about organ donation. This can make things easier for families at a very difficult time.”