Almost everyone can donate organs and tissue. Whether the donation actually happens depends on where and how a person dies, and the condition of their organs and tissue. Our 'Facts and statistics' section has more information about donation and transplantation.

What if I'm older or not in good health?

While age and medical history will be considered, no one should assume they are too young, old or unhealthy to become a donor.

Only a few medical conditions (such as transmissible diseases like HIV) may prevent someone being a donor.

The most important thing to do is to register and talk to your family.

Are there religious restrictions?

All major religions support organ and tissue donation for transplantation. For more information, read our Organ donation and religion fact sheet.

Can I donate while I'm still alive?

You can donate a kidney or part of your liver while you're still alive. This is known as 'living donation'. Most living donors are family members or close friends of the recipient.

You can also be a live femoral head donator if you are having a total hip replacement. The head of the femur is retrieved as part of a total hip replacement operation.

Find out more on the Living donation page.