This Organ Donation Week, we’re encouraging our children, young people, families and wider community to learn more about organ donation and talk to their loved ones about their wishes.
Taking place from Monday 21st to Sunday 27th September, the national campaign highlights the difference organ donation can make and the continuing need for donors. More than 8,000 people across the UK currently need a transplant to save or improve their lives, according to NHS Blood and Transplant.
For children and young people living with serious illness, a transplant can bring new opportunities to spend time with friends, return to school and enjoy the activities they love.
This week is also an opportunity to recognise organ donors and their families, whose generosity has helped others, and to remember those who have died while waiting for a transplant.
Make your wishes known
Organ donation is a personal decision. Whatever you decide, recording your wishes on the NHS Organ Donor Register and sharing them with those closest to you can help your family understand what you would want.
Having the conversation now can help them support your decision in the future.
Read NHS advice on talking to your loved ones by clicking here.
Take a moment this Organ Donation Week to register or update your decision and let your loved ones know.