More than 2.9 million people across Scotland have recorded their decision about organ and tissue donation, but new figures show that 44% of people in Forth Valley are yet to do so, as Organ and Tissue Donation Week returns to encourage the nation to consider their own wishes.

Running from 21- 27 September, the national week provides an opportunity to raise awareness of organ and tissue donation and spark crucial conversations that help families understand their loved one’s wishes. This year, Organ and Tissue Donation Week coincides with National Eye Health Week (also running from 21-27 September), which shines a light on cornea donation specifically – a decision that sits alongside, but is sometimes overlooked within, the wider donation choice.

With a significant number of people in Scotland waiting for a life-saving transplant the Scottish Government’s ‘Don’t leave your loved ones in doubt’ campaign highlights the importance of making a choice, recording that choice on the NHS Organ Donor Register and ensuring those closest to you understand it.

Under Scotland’s opt-out system, adults aged 16 and over can choose to register as a donor or opt-out. If an individual does not record a decision, it may be assumed that they agree to become a donor if they die in circumstances where donation is possible, unless they are part of an excluded group or if donation would be against their beliefs.

Whatever decision someone makes, recording it and talking about it with family and friends can help ensure their wishes are understood. Families are always involved in discussions about donation and are asked about their loved one’s views, including their most recent wishes, before donation takes place.

Having that conversation in advance can therefore provide clarity at what can otherwise be an incredibly difficult time.

This year’s Organ and Tissue Donation Week follows the launch of A Gift, a poignant new poem by Scotland’s Makar Dr Peter MacKay. Written in tribute to donors and their families, the poem reflects on the generosity of donors and the impact it can have on others, offering the possibility of more time, more memories and more moments with the people they love.

Joanne Brooks, Lead Nurse – Organ Donation, Scotland Organ Donation Team, NHS Blood and Transplant said: “Our clinical teams see first-hand the extraordinary impact that organ and tissue donation makes to the lives of patients and their families, witnessing the hope and renewed opportunities that donation can bring.

“Organ and tissue donation is one of the most generous gifts a person can give. It has the power to transform and save lives. At the heart of every donation is the remarkable kindness of donors and the support of their families, whose decision makes these life-changing transplants possible.”

Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “Organ donation is a truly life-changing gift. This Organ and Tissue Donation Week, I encourage people across Scotland to record their choice on the NHS Organ Donor Register and make their decision known to their loved ones.

“Whilst these conversations aren’t always easy, they are important. By clearly sharing your decision on organ and tissue donation with those close to you, you can ensure they understand your wishes and help give others a chance of a better life.”

To find out more and register your decision, visit the NHS Organ Donor Register at www.organdonation.scot.