Organ donor register marking 25 years

The NHS Organ Donor Register is marking its 25-year milestone.

People in Grampian are being encouraged to let their friends and family know if they want to donate their organs as the register celebrates its 25th birthday.

In Grampian 50% of the population are registered; more than 2.6 million people in Scotland are organ donors.

Next autumn the law will change to an optout system instead of an opt-in. If people haven’t confirmed whether they want to be an organ donor before they die, it will be assumed they’re willing to donate.

Dr Paul Gamble, NHS

“Makeiteasier ... by telling them what you would want”

Grampian clinical lead for organ donation said: “Ahead of the law changing in autumn 2020, we’re encouraging people to think about their donation decision and make it known.

“As families are always involved in organ donation discussions, you can make it easier for them by telling them what you would want...

“Everyone has a choice, and they can record their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register at any time.”

Since its creation more than 6,200 lives have been saved or improved in Scotland, and there are more than 550 people waiting on a transplant.

One donor can save or transform the lives of up to nine people and even more by donating tissue.