Organ donation is typically only possible if you die in hospital, due to the time-sensitive nature of organ viability. However, since no one knows exactly where they’ll die, it’s still important to make your wishes known in advance.
How organ donation works in the UK
Visit the NHS Organ Donation website for full details: www.organdonation.nhs.uk/uk-laws. Here’s a brief overview by region:
England
Adults (18+) are considered to have consented to organ donation unless they have opted out or are part of an excluded group. This is known as an ‘opt-out’ system.
Wales
The law is based on ‘deemed consent’ – if no decision is recorded, you’re considered to have no objection to donating.
Scotland
Scotland uses ‘deemed authorisation’ – if you haven’t recorded a choice, you’re presumed to be willing to donate.
Northern Ireland
If no decision has been registered, you are considered to have consented to donate.
Key considerations
Where you die matters: If you die at home, it is unlikely your organs will be viable for donation.
Your wishes should still be documented: even if home death is more important to you than donation, stating this clearly helps others honour your priorities.
If donation is a priority:
consider making your preference for hospital-based care known in advance
ensure family members, carers and healthcare professionals understand your intentions.
Make your wishes clear
Whatever decisions you make, they are yours to make. To help your loved ones carry them out:
Write down your choices.
Discuss them with your family.
Include them in your will or advance care planning documents.
Notify your GP or care team if relevant.
Need support?
If you're unsure how to begin these conversations, please reach out:
Speak with your GP or palliative care team for medical guidance.
Visit the NHS Organ Donation website for help with registering your decision.
Contact a funeral director or end-of-life planning organisation for personalised advice.
You're not alone in this. These are big questions, and it's okay to take your time in answering them.