74% of people in Wales now aware of new organ donation system

New figures published today show 74% of people are now aware of the changes to the organ donation system in Wales (Monday February 1).

This compares to 69% of people when the last set of figures were released in December.

The number of people who had discussed their organ donation decisions with their family has also risen slightly to 47%.

Previously released figures show understanding of the new opt-out system in Wales is also high, with eight out of 10 people who are aware being able to describe the changes.

The release of new the data comes during the launch of the next phase of the Organ Donation Wales public information campaign, ‘It’s Time to Talk’, which encourages people to make time to talk about their organ donation choices now Wales has introduced a soft-opt out system.

Wales became the first part of the UK to change the organ donation system in December when it introduced a soft opt-out system. People aged 18 and over who have lived in Wales for more than 12 months and who die in Wales will now be regarded as having consented to organ donation unless they have opted opt. This is called deemed consent.

People who want to be an organ donor can register a decision to opt in or do nothing, which will mean they have no objection to being an organ donor. Those people who do not want to be organ donor can opt out at any time.

The change to the organ donation system, which came into force on December 1, 2015 could lead to a 25% increase in the number of organ donors.

The new advertising campaign, which will available online and broadcast across television and radio stations, encourages Welsh residents to talk to their loved ones about their organ donation decision so their families are clear about their decision. In the past many families have refused to consent to organ donation if they do not know what their loved one wanted.

Health and Social Services Minister Mark Drakeford said:

“Last year, 14 people died while waiting for an organ. We hope the change to the organ donation system in Wales will increase organ donation rates.

“However, it’s important people talk to their families and loved ones about their organ donation decision. It’s very rare we find ourselves in a position of being a donor but families are more likely to support donation if they are aware of their loved ones organ donation decision.

“If you haven’t yet made a decision, it’s not too late to decide – you can register a decision at any time on the NHS Organ Donor register and remember to tell your family of your decision.”