Organ donation changes in Wales: Your questions answered

Organ donation poster Credit: ITV Wales

We've seen the posters and watched the adverts but there are many questions still being asked about the new organ donation law.

It'll introduce the concept of presumed consent. It means there's an assumption that you want your organs to be donated when you die. If you don't, then you have to officially register that.

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions:

1. When does the new system begin?

The key date is December 1st 2015. By this date you should have registered your decision. If you chose not to register then it's assumed you are consenting to having your organs donated.

You can always change your decision at a later date. And this won't cover all deaths. Organ donation is only possible in specific cases.

2. Can I opt-out now?

No. You will be able to register your opt-out from the summer.

3. Who will the law apply to?

People aged 18 or over who have lived in Wales for at least 12 months.

You must living in Wales voluntarily so prisoners and service personnel are exempt but students or people living in Wales for work are not. If you live in Wales but die elsewhere then the law doesn't apply.

The law will come into effect from December 1 2015 Credit: Tim Ireland/PA Wire

4. Can my family object?

The Welsh Government says the role of the family will be essential. According to the official website, family members can tell doctors if the deceased objected to organ donation even if they hadn't registered their wishes.

If that's the case then the transplant will not go ahead.

5. How will the register work?

The system has yet to be launched but officials say every Welsh home will be informed when it is.

If you only want to donate specific organs then that is allowed.

To find out more information head to: www.organdonationwales.org/