Organ Donation

The system in England and Wales at the moment is that your organs will not be used for transplant or medical research unless you and/or your relatives give formal written consent.

If you want your organs to be used after your death you will need to give your consent. This can be done by completing an application form. Donor Card Application Forms are available from Doctors, Hospitals, Post Offices, and Libraries.

When someone has died and wants their organs to be donated then the Medical Certificate of death must also be obtained. If death has been reported to the Coroner then the Coroner's consent will be required.

The Doctor or Hospital must be informed of the deceased’s wishes as soon as possible since organs deteriorate rapidly.

It is unlikely that organs will be used unless the deceased’s next of kin give their consent, although legally the medical authorities do have the right to go ahead if the next of kin refuse.