The Scottish Government have announced plans to bring forward legislation to change the organ donation system to a soft opt-out.

Humanist Society Scotland had previously called for such a change and we are pleased to see this now being brought forward.

Commenting on today’s news Fraser Sutherland, HSS Campaigns and Communications Manager said:

“We are delighted by today’s announcement which will lead to new laws around organ donation.

Fraser Sutherland, HSS Campaigns and Communications Manager

“As Humanists we have long been concerned by the fact that an individuals express wishes in relation to Organ Donation or whole body donation, can be overturned after their death due to someone else religious beliefs.

“As Humanists we value the autonomy of an individual over their own body and beliefs. No person should be subject to decisions based on another individual’s religious or spiritual life stance.

“We will fully engage with the forthcoming consultation process to ensure an individuals autonomy on what happens to their body is fully respected and not overturned after their death.”