More than 6,000 people are currently waiting for an organ in the UK.
A new “opt-out” organ donations system is to be implemented across England in May.
The new Organ Donation Act, also known as Max and Keira’s law, received Royal Assent last year.
This change will mean adults in England will be automatically be considered potential donors unless they chose to opt-out or are excluded.
With more than 6,000 people currently waiting for an organ in the UK, the new law will help to reduce the number of people waiting for a life-saving transplant.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Too many people lose their lives waiting for an organ, and I’ve been determined to do what I can to boost organ donation rates.
“This is an important step forward in making organ donation easier and more available to those who need it and could help save hundreds of lives every year.”
A precious gift.
Anthony Clarkson, director of organ donation and transplantation for NHSBT, said: “We hope that the new law encourages more people to record their donation decision and talk about organ donation with their families.
“It is important for people to know that they can do this at any time before or after the law comes into effect.
“There is no deadline for making your donation decision.
“We are encouraged that almost two-thirds of people in England are now aware that the law is changing, but we would like this figure to be even higher by the time the law changes.
“The majority of people tell us that they support organ donation in principle, yet only around four in 10 have actually registered their decision.
“Organ donation is and always will be a precious gift and if more people are inspired to support and agree to donation, then many more lives can be saved.”
