The Newark Advertiser hears people’s thoughts on the NHS Organ Donation’s opt-out scheme

In its weekly voxpop, the Advertiser heard people’s opinions on the organ donor scheme’s opt-out system and whether it gives people a fair choice or not.

In May 2020, the government implemented an opt-out system for organ donation, meaning that everyone is considered a willing donor after death, unless they have opted out.

Everyone the Advertiser spoke to was in favour of organ donation; however, some people believe that people should be given the choice to become organ donors, rather than just being made one automatically.

Carolyn Hage said: “We should all have the choice, and I do think not enough people know about the opt-out system. I know about it, but I would imagine a lot of people wouldn’t.”

Recent statistics, provided by NHS Organ Donation, showed that 14 people are waiting for an organ transplant in Newark and Sherwood, as of the end of September 2025.

In 2024/2025, five people from the area received an organ transplant because of a deceased organ donor, but also fewer than five people from the borough died and donated their organs in that time period.

Tina Sowerby said that she thinks it is a good thing. “I am an organ donor anyway, and I often ask people who say ‘Oh no I couldn’t do that!’, if you needed a kidney or a heart, would you accept a donation? And they say yes.

“Then I ask them why they wouldn’t donate? And it makes them think that if they are willing to accept a donor organ, why wouldn’t they want to donate?

“I always say that I will donate everything but my eyes, don’t ask me why, but that is how I feel.”

Peter Duncan agreed with the opt-out system, believing that otherwise, people wouldn’t remember or notice, but that this way, there are definite organ donors.

“I think it is good to have an opt-out system, because a lot of people probably want to be organ donors but they forget to sign up,” Nicola Walker said.

“At the end of the day, I am of the opinion that if you are dead, what difference does it make if you donate your organs? At least you might help save someone else’s life.”

NHS Blood and Transplant is now appealing for all those who have not registered what should happen with their organs after they die to do so, and to make their families aware of their wishes.

Elaine Castle said: “Yes it is a good idea to keep it as it is, but people should be able to choose because you will get more people to take part.

“Everyone likes a choice in life, like you do when you make your will, you choose who you leave your money to, you choose if you want to leave your organs, and it is also important for religious reasons.”

Mr Engleton added: “I think people should just sign up because if it benefits anyone after you die, then so be it.”

The Newark Advertiser now asks its readers — Do you think it is good that the organ donation scheme works on an opt-out basis?