52% of people in NHS Ayrshire & Arran have recorded their decision
Today, NHS Ayrshire & Arran is getting behind Organ and Tissue Donation Week by encouraging more people to make a choice when it comes to their donation decision and importantly, register it.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the NHS Organ Donor Register and celebrates the thousands of lives that have been saved thanks to people agreeing to the gift of organ and tissue donation. With many still awaiting transplants, it remains vital for people to confirm their organ and tissue donation decision.
New figures released to coincide with the Week (23- 29 September) reveal that 52% of people in Ayrshire and Arran have now registered their donation decision.
Of that figure, 48% have recorded their decision to be a donor on the NHS Organ Donor Register, with 4% choosing to opt out.
In Scotland, everyone has a choice when it comes to organ and tissue donation – to be a donor, or to opt out.
If people aged 16 and over choose to do nothing, it may be assumed that they agree to be a donor if they die in circumstances where donation is possible, unless they are in a group for whom the opt out system does not apply, or it would be against their views.
Deputy Nurse Director Ruth McMurdo and Chair of NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Organ and Tissue Donation committee said:
“Over the past 30 years, the NHS Organ Donor Register has saved and transformed countless lives through the incredible gift of organ and tissue donation. Whatever decision you make, it’s essential to record it on the NHS Organ Donor Register and share it with your loved ones. Ninety per cent of families have said they will honour their relative’s wishes if they’ve confirmed their decision on the Register. So please don’t leave your loved ones in doubt.”
“On their days off, some of our staff have been taking part in local parkruns to raise awareness about the importance of Organ and Tissue donation and making your decision known.”
“Every opportunity for donation is invaluable to help save lives. Let’s make Organ and Tissue Donation Week count this year, by ensuring your decision is known and shared with those closest to you.”
People can register their donation decision and find out more at www.organdonation.scot or by calling 0300 123 2323.