Organ Donation Law in England has Changed from Today

[Hereford Voice]

Organ donation law in England has changed.

What has changed?

Organ donation in England has moved to an 'opt out' system. You may also hear it referred to as 'Max and Keira's Law'.

This means that all adults in England will be considered to have agreed to be an organ donor when they die unless they have recorded a decision not to donate or are in one of the excluded groups.

Your family will still be approached and your faith, beliefs and culture will continue to be respected.

You still have a choice whether or not you wish to become a donor. Get the facts about organ donation to help you decide. 

Why has the law changed?

The law has been changed to help save and improve more lives. Every day across the UK, someone dies waiting for a transplant.

What do I have to do?

We are asking everyone to:

1. Record your organ donation decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register
2. Tell your family and friends what you have decided

If you would like to speak to somebody about your choices, please call our dedicated line: 0300 303 2094

When did the law change?

The opt out system in England came into effect on 20 May 2020.

Who will the changes affect?

These changes will affect all adults in England unless they have recorded a decision not to donate or are in one of the following excluded groups:

• Those under the age of 18
• People who lack the mental capacity to understand the new arrangements and take the necessary action
• Visitors to England, and those not living here voluntarily
• People who have lived in England for less than 12 months before their death

Download the factsheet below

The factsheet explains the changes to the law around organ donation in England, and the choices you can make.

organ-donation-law-in-england-factsheet-updated-010520.pdf