We are grateful to those who donate their bodies to us after their death.
We use donations in this way for teaching medical professionals and for medical research.
Bequeathal of bodies is regulated by the Human Tissue Act 2004 and overseen by the Human Tissue Authority.
How to donate your body
In summary, the process for donating your body is as follows:
- Discuss your intentions with your next-of-kin and/or your executors.
- Complete two copies of the bequeathal form:
- Sign both copies in the presence of a witness
- Ask the witness to sign both copies in your presence
- Return one copy of the form to us.
- Keep the other copy, together with the rest of the bequeathal information pack, in a safe place, preferably with your will or legal papers. Make sure that your next-of-kin and/or your executors know where the form is.
Full details of this process and consent forms, including a list of pre-existing medical conditions which may mean that we can't accept your bequeathal, are in the bequeathal information pack.
Frequently asked questions about body donation
Information for organ donors
Bequeathing your body is not the same as donating your organs for transplantation after your death. To donate your organs, you should join the NHS organ donor register.
If you have joined the organ donor register, you can still bequeath your body for teaching and research. However, if organs are removed from your body at the time of death, this may mean we can't accept your bequeathal at that time. Full details about this restriction are in the bequeathal information pack.
Procedure at the time of death
Relatives or executors should notify the Medical School as soon as possible during office hours. We are open Monday to Friday and can be contacted on 01482 464750 or bequeath@hyms.ac.uk. We will make a decision on the acceptance of any bequests as quickly as possible.
If the death occurs outside of office hours, such as a weekend, arrangements should be made to transfer the deceased to a local funeral director with refrigeration facilities and a telephone call made to us the next working day, although acceptance cannot be guaranteed.
If the death occurs during major public holidays such as Christmas or New Year when the University is closed, the School will be unable to accept bodies. During these times, next of kin are advised to make their own arrangements for a funeral.
Further information is available in our bequeathal information pack.