Organ and Tissue Donation Week - 30 years of the Register

This Organ and Tissue Donation Week marks 30 years of the NHS Organ Donor Register. We’re encouraging people to leave no doubt when it comes to their donation decision and register it on the NHS Organ Donor Register and tell their families what they’ve decided.

In Scotland, everyone has a choice when it comes to organ and tissue donation - to be a donor, or to opt out. If people aged 16 and over choose to do nothing, it is assumed they agree to be a donor if they die in circumstances where donation is possible, unless they are in a group for whom the opt out system does not apply or it would be against their views. Registering your decision and sharing it with loved ones is important, as it will make it easier for family and friends to honour your wishes. 9 out of 10 families will support organ donation if their loved one has confirmed their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register.

Richard from the Borders who received a liver transplant after becoming suddenly ill in 2015, said:  “I would never have been a grandpa but for the kindness and humanity of the donor and their family. They gave me a second chance at life.”

Lynsey from the Borders who also received a liver transplant said: “Anyone considering opting in on the register please do, it’s the biggest most amazing gift you could ever give, transforms lives and gives families hope of a future that otherwise wouldn’t be possible.”

Harriet Campbell, Non-Executive Director and Organ and Tissue Donation Champion at NHS Borders said: “Whatever your decision, please take the time to register it. Don’t leave your loved ones in doubt and give them the chance to honour your decisions.

“In the Borders, 92,862 people have registered their decision and you can help us grow that number. If you haven’t already, take this opportunity to have the conversation with family and friends and make your decision known. It could save a life.”

In Scotland, around 600 people on average are waiting on an organ transplant, however only around 1% of people die in a way that makes organ donation possible, which means every opportunity for donation is precious.

Help make Organ and Tissue Donation Week Count. Register your donation decision and find out more at www.organdonation.scot or by calling 0300 123 2323