The NHS has launched its first-ever urgent response to a sharp decline in organ donation, warning that falling donor numbers and family consent rates are putting pressure on transplant services across the UK.

The response was announced during Organ Donation Week 2026, as NHS Blood and Transplant urged more people to register their organ donation decision and discuss their wishes with family members.

NHS Blood and Transplant says deceased donation rates are currently 9% below the same point last year, while the number of people waiting for an organ transplant has reached its highest level on record.

The NHS says the situation is having a direct impact on patients waiting for potentially life-saving treatment. Current figures cited by NHS organisations indicate that nine people are dying each week while waiting for a transplant.

The urgent response includes efforts to increase registrations on the NHS Organ Donor Register and encourage families to have conversations about organ donation.

Health officials are also highlighting the importance of family support, as relatives can play a significant role when organ donation is being considered after a person's death.

The campaign comes as NHS services seek to reverse the recent decline and increase the number of organs available for transplantation across the UK.