MORE than three-quarters of people in the South East backed the new ‘opt-out’ organ donation system – where people are registered as a donor, unless they state otherwise – rather than the current ‘opt-in’ law, according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

In a new poll of more than 2,000 people, the heart research charity found out of those who do not support a change in the law, more than a third (34 per cent) were put off by concerns they would not be able to opt out, or it would be difficult to do so.

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

Earlier this month, MPs voted in favour of a new Bill that will introduce an ‘opt-out’ system in England, potentially saving thousands of lives.

The BHF say the figures also indicate a lack of awareness around the urgency of organ donation.

The survey found more than half of people in the region (54 per cent) underestimated the number of people on the UK’s organ transplant list – which last year peaked at 6,388.

More than a third (35 per cent) underestimated the number of people who died last year while on the waiting list for an organ donation – 457 people.

The figures also revealed just under half (47 per cent) are not aware of their families wishes when it comes to organ donation. Just under half (48 per cent) said they simply hadn’t thought about having a conversation and more than a quarter (27 per cent) said it was too awkward or sad to bring up.

BHF chief executive Simon Gillespie 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.”

Kieran Sandwell, who had a heart transplant at the age of 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.

“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.”