Donating organs or tissue for transplant can enhance or often save the lives of others who need them. English law on organ donation changed in 2020 and it is now an opt-out. Please visit this page to register your choice.
There is no upper age limit for donation of organs or tissue.
The following medical conditions preclude you from donation:
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)
- Ebola virus disease
- Active cancer**
- HIV*
*In rare cases, donors with HIV have helped others with the same condition. Please still register your wish to donate and your case will be considered by a medical team.
**Almost anyone can donate their cornea, even with widespread cancer. The cornea is the clear tissue at the front of your eye that lets in light so you can see. This part of the eye is hugely important for thousands of cornea transplants a year, often saving the precious sight of others.
See Myths about corneal donation
Organs and tissues that can be donated
|
Organ |
Tissue |
|
Kidney |
Cornea |
|
Heart |
Skin |
|
Liver |
Bone |
|
Small bowel |
Tendons |
|
Pancreas |
Heart valves |
|
Lungs |
|
If you wish to be an organ donor:
- Join the NHS organ donor register
- Tell a friend or relative about your wishes
Further information is available by:
- calling the organ donor line on 0300 123 2323
- or via the website