NHS Borders is using Organ Donation Week to remind Borders residents of upcoming changes to the law in Scotland.

The campaign week – running from September 7 to 13 – draws attention to the possibilities of organ donation and seeks to encourage people to record their decision on the subject.

This year, with planned events taking a back seat due to COVID-19 restrictions, NHS Borders is raising awareness of the imminent change in law around organ donation.

From March 2021, the law in Scotland is changing to an “opt out” system.

This means that, if you die in circumstances where donation could be possible, you will be automatically considered a potential donor unless you have chosen to opt out or are in an excluded group.

NHS Borders’ clinical lead for organ donation, David Love, said: “Deciding whether or not to become a donor after you have died is a very personal matter and it’s important that you make your own decision and share that decision with those closest to you.

“Telling your family can save them unnecessary distress during an already difficult time.”

Although more than 70 per cent of people in Scotland support donation and would be willing to donate after death, many do not record this decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register.

Dr Love added: “In Scotland, more than 500 people are waiting for a transplant at any time but there aren’t enough donors to help all of these people.

“By being an organ donor you could give up to seven people a second chance at life.

“This is an opportunity for many of us to truly give a gift of life.”

To find out more about organ donation and to join the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit www.organdonationscotland.org