Organ Donation

Organs and tissue are always removed with the greatest of care and respect for the person. This takes place in a normal operating theatre under sterile conditions by specialist doctors. Afterwards the surgical incision is carefully closed and covered by a dressing in the normal way.

Tissue can be removed in an operating theatre, mortuary or funeral home. The operation is carried out by specialist healthcare professionals who always ensure that the donor is treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

Only those organs and tissue specified by the donor or their family will be removed.

“I've been given a new lease of life. I am able to do things I never dreamt I would be able to do again. I am so grateful for the chance that the donor and his family gave me." Father of two, liver recipient

Yes. Families are given the opportunity to spend time with their loved one after the operation if they wish and this is facilitated by the transplant co-ordinator. Arrangements for viewing the body after donation are the same as after any death.

No. There is no question of any payment at all. The NHS meets the costs related to the donation of organs and tissue.

The NHS will not pay the cost of the funeral. Funeral costs are met either by the family or from the person’s estate. Families in receipt of certain benefits may be able to get help with the cost of funerals.

"It helped my grieving a lot to know that some part of him had gone to help someone else." Wife of donor.