Almost three quarters of people in the south west are in favour of an 'opt-out' organ donation system, according to new figures from the British Heart Foundation.

The study found that 74 per cent of people in the region would support the policy, which would see people registered as a donor unless they state otherwise, as opposed to the current 'opt-in' law.

In a poll of over 2,000 people, the heart research charity found that out of those in the south west who would not support a change in the law, 28 per cent were put off by concerns that they would not be able to opt out, or that it would be difficult to do so.

The charity says this highlights a lack of public awareness and and demonstrates confusion about the proposed new system, which would allow any person opposed to donating their organs to opt out.

This Friday, MPs have the opportunity to make history by voting in favour of a new bill that will introduce an 'opt-out' system in England, potentially saving thousands of lives.

People in the South West are being urged to write to their local MP, to encourage them to attend the debate.

Simon Gillespie, chief executive of the British Heart Foundation, said: “There is a desperate shortage of organs in the UK, and introducing an opt-out system in England will better reflect the views of the general public and give hope to those currently waiting for a transplant they so desperately need.

“We are urging everyone in the South West to encourage their local MP to attend parliament this Friday to debate a bill that could save lives.”

Kieran Sandwell, who had a heart transplant at just 38, said:

“I have been given a second chance at life, but I have met many others who are living in agonising uncertainty about whether they will live or die. For them, a new organ is their only chance of survival. Surely with so many people in need, an opt-out system is a no-brainer.

“I’m alive today because my donor made it clear she wanted to donate her organs, and I will be forever thankful that she made her wishes clear.”

The BHF urges you to show your support for an opt-out organ donation system by encouraging your MP to attend the debate. Write to them here bhf.org.uk/organdonation