Human Tissue and Organ Donation Act 2021 ‘Daniel’s Law’
The Human Tissue and Organ Donation Bill received Royal Assent in July 2021, which means that we are one step closer to an opt-out system of organ donation registration, like in England, Scotland and Wales.
Q: What does this mean?
A: The decision to donate organs in the Isle of Man has always been based on an opt-in system, which means that if you want to donate your organs and tissue, you have to ‘opt-in’ in order to be considered as a donor. The Human Tissue and Organ Donation Act will change this to an opt-out system. Once it has been implemented, individuals will be assumed consented organ donors when they die if they are over 18 years of age, have not opted out and are not in an ‘excluded group’.
Q: When will it be in place?
A: There are numerous operational and legislative steps to take before the bill is enacted and this is a longer-term project, which Public Health is currently progressing. All changes and updates will be communicated to the public in a timely manner.
Q: What do I need to do?
A: Discuss your choice with your family and loved ones and register your donation decision with the NHS Blood and Transplant Organ Donor Register. You can register to donate or not to donate at any time by visiting https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/register-your-decision/ or calling 0300 123 23 23.
Q: Where can I find out more information?
A: You can find out more about organ donation by visiting https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/
The subject of Organ Donation is a very emotive subject and does raise questions.
We are hoping this page will help with any questions you might have, however if either the information we provide, or the links given do not answer your questions please do contact us and we will be happy to help.
Organ donation is all about choice, do you want to donate your organs, or do you not want to donate your organs.
A very good resource of information is the NHS Organ Donation website, please take a look.
Opt Out (England and Wales)
Organ donation in England has changed to an ‘opt out’ system. Yo u may also hear it referred to as ‘Max and Keira’s Law’.
This means that if you are not in an excluded group, and have not confirmed whether you want to be an organ donor – either by recording a decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register, or by speaking to friends and family – it will be considered that you agree to donate your organs when you die.
You still have a choice about whether or not you wish to become a donor and your faith, beliefs and culture will continue to be respected. Get the facts about organ donation to help you decide.
Opt Out (Isle of Man)
The Isle of Man and going to follow England in changing the law to an ‘opt out’ system. The “Bill” which is entitled “Daniels Bill”, has been delayed because of COVID19, however this will be further discussed in the House of Keys in October 2020, and we are hopeful it will become law in 2021. Please click here see more details