NHS Lanarkshire today backed Organ and Tissue Donation Week by encouraging people to leave no doubt when it comes to their donation decision.

Over half of people in Scotland have already recorded their decision, but with an average of 500 people waiting on a transplant at any one time, every opportunity for donation is precious.

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 is assumed 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.

Diane Bowler, Specialist Nurse, NHS Lanarkshire said:

“Family and friends will always be involved in discussions about organ or tissue donation. A Specialist Nurse would discuss any registered decision, or lack of one, with family and friends in order to ascertain the individual’s most recent views, which may have changed since the recording of any decision.”

Minister for Public Health Maree Todd said:

“There are so many inspiring stories which show the difference a transplant can make to someone’s life.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has taken the time to think about their donation decision and make it known by recording it on the NHS Organ Donor Register.

“Donation remains a personal decision, but whatever you decide, recording it and sharing it with loved ones can make it easier for them to ensure it is honoured. I hope Organ and Tissue Donation Week prompts more of those important conversations.”

People can register their donation decision and find out more at www.organdonation.scot or by calling 0300 123 2323.