Guest column: Public consultation on organ donation is welcome
There are around 6,500 people across the UK waiting for an organ transplant and I sympathise profoundly with anyone affected.
Transplants save lives and improve quality of life and I believe that there is a lot more to do to ensure as many people as possible in the UK receive the transplant they need.
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I support the move to an opt-out system of organ donation in England.
Wales has already introduced an opt-out system and the Scottish Government has announced its intention to bring forward similar legislation.
A related petition calling for this change has been signed by more than 71,000 people.
On October 4, 2017 the Government confirmed it will launch a consultation on increasing rates of organ donation and it is seeking views on a wide range of opinions.
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I am pleased that the Government is allowing anyone with a view to take part in the consultation.
I believe medical and healthcare professionals must be involved in designing any changes to the system and they must have the support to raise awareness among the public.
I also believe the Government must work closely with community groups to ensure that cultural and religious views are taken into account before any change is introduced.
I hope that this debate will drive a national conversation about organ donation.
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Whatever legislation is in place, telling your family of your organ donation decision lets them know what you want to happen and means your family don’t have to make a difficult decision when they are grieving.