Organ Donation Northern Ireland

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Have you thought about it?

Most people would accept an organ if they needed one. Not surprising really. Yet only 49% of us have signed the NHS Organ Donor Register.

Last year 11 people died in Northern Ireland waiting for an organ transplant. By signing the register and talking to your family about your decision you could help save the lives of up to nine people.

Sign the Organ Donor Register

There are lots of simple ways to register. Or maybe you need to check if you are already registered.
Find out how to and what happens afterwards.

Online

By phone

By post

Talk about your decision

The death of someone close can be a difficult time. Telling your family or friends you want to be an organ donor means they will know what to do if the time comes.

49%

of the population in Northern Ireland are on the Organ Donor Register

93%

of people in Northern Ireland are in support of organ donation

people died last year in Northern Ireland waiting for an organ transplant.

51%

of families agree to donation if they don't know their loved one's wishes

93%

of families agree to donation if they know their loved ones’ wishes

What is organ donation?

Organ donation gives the precious gift of life to others. Let us explain exactly what’s involved, how you can register and dispel any myths you might have heard.

Where are we now?

Views expressed in a recent public consultation on a 'soft opt-out' system for organ donation will inform the development of a draft Bill for consideration by the Northern Ireland Assembly. Find out more here.

Erica

from Carrickfergus

Erica Ferguson, from Carrickfergus, has had two lifesaving liver transplants. Erica received her first transplant when she was 26 years old in March 2002 and her second in April 2004.

Erica is sharing her story to highlight the importance of talking about organ donation.

“Prior to my liver transplant I was a busy Mum, working in a thriving retail environment. Like every working mum, I juggled work and family life. I was very fit and healthy. I worked out and enjoyed spending time with my family and socialising.