A new law in the Isle of Man has introduced an opt-out system for organ donation, bringing it in line with the UK and Crown Dependencies. Coming into force on 1 January 2026, the Human Tissue and Organ Donation Act aims to increase the number of organs available for donation by introducing deemed consent. That is, adults living in the Isle of Man will generally be presumed to have wanted to donate their organs after death unless they record a decision to opt out. Humanists UK has long advocated for opt-out systems for organ donation and celebrates this landmark success.
Opt-out systems have already been introduced in Wales in 2015, Jersey in 2019, England in 2020, Scotland in 2021, and Northern Ireland and Guernsey in 2023. The Isle of Man was the last remaining jurisdiction of the UK and Crown Dependencies to bring such a law into force. Until now, the Isle of Man operated an opt-in system of organ donation. This meant potential organ donors had to sign up to an organ donor register. The problem with the opt-in system was that while many people were happy to donate their organs, they did not sign up for the register or discuss their wishes with their family or friends. This meant that medical professionals were not aware that they wished to consent to organ donation.
Humanists UK campaigned for a move away from an ‘opt-in’ system of consent to donating organs in favour of a ‘soft opt-out’ system where a deceased person aged over 16 is presumed to have consented to their organs being donated, unless they had specifically stated otherwise and their family members know of no prior objection. Opt-out donation better reflects the generosity of the public, ensures clarity for families at difficult moments, and leads to more organs being available for those in need. At the same time, it protects the right of anyone who does not wish to donate to make that decision clear.
Director of Human Rights and Advocacy Richy Thompson said:
‘This is a landmark success for human autonomy and compassion across the UK and Crown Dependencies. Opt-out organ donation respects the right to choose while helping to save more lives.
‘However, we still encourage humanists to register their decision with the NHS and to discuss their wishes with their families to make sure that their decision is respected after death.’
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For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson at press@humanists.uk or phone 0203 675 0959.
Read more about our work on life-saving opt-out organ donation systems.
Register your decision about your choices on the NHS Organ Donor Register.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 150,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.