Former Liberal Democrat Leader Tim Farron says an opt-out organ donation system is needed now more than ever after new figures revealed that 40 people have died in Cumbria over the past 10 years while waiting for an organ.

Tim is encouraging people to take part in the Government’s consultation into a proposed opt-out organ donation system for England

There are currently over 6,000 people in England who are on the organ donor waiting list.

Tim said:

“After years of campaigning to get the law changed, last year the Government finally agreed in principle to change the organ donor system in England to an ‘opt-out’ system.

“This will be a lifeline for so many people.

“These depressing figures show how important it is that we make sure that we hold the Government’s feet to the fire on their promise.

“The consultation only takes 10 minutes to complete but could go a long way to saving someone’s life.”

Tim’s call has been backed by local councillor Rachael Hogg, who had an organ donated to her by her husband Chris in 2016.

Rachael said:

“I have been one of the very lucky ones who have received an organ donation – twice!

“I’ll always be truly grateful to the first donor and their family for carrying a donor card and giving me the gift of life (and of course to my husband too for being a live donor).

“On average three people die a day waiting for an organ transplant. I can’t express how important signing up on the organ donor register is, but it is also crucial to talk to family and let them know you have made that choice too.”

To take part in the consultation go here