Organ Donation Law in England is Changing

What is changing?

From 20 May 2020, organ donation in England will move 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.

You still have a choice if you want to be an organ donor or not when you die. Get the facts about organ donation to help you decide. 

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Why is the law changing?

The law is being 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 is the law changing?

The opt out system in England will come into effect from 20 May 2020. The law around organ donation in England will remain ‘opt in’ until this time.

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

The factsheet explains how the law around organ donation in England is changing, what you need to do, and the choices you can make.

Published: 11th March 2020

Source: Organ Donation – NHS

Page URL: https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/uk-laws/organ-donation-law-in-england/