Body donation FAQs
Frequently asked questions about body donation.
Do medical schools still need bodies for dissection?
Dissection is a vital aspect of anatomy teaching and surgical training, and is valued greatly both by students and staff.
Can anyone donate their body?
There is no upper age limit, however donors must be mature enough to make an informed decision about such a donation. Therefore there is a minimum age limit of 17.
Do I have to put my consent in writing?
Yes. The Human Tissue Act 2004 states that a bequest of body must be made by the donor in writing and signed in the presence of at least one witness. To ensure your wishes are met you are strongly advised to complete the available forms.
How long will a medical school keep my body for?
The consent form allows you the choice of having your body released for cremation within three years, or allowing the medical school to keep it for as long as it can be used.
The form asks for permission to take images of my body. What will these be used for?
These images will be used solely for education, training and research purposes; the donor will not be identifiable in them.
Will a medical school definitely accept my body?
No guarantee can be given that a medical school will accept the offer of a donation. There are medical criteria to be met and as circumstances can change, medical schools are unable to make a firm decision until after a death has occurred. Reasons that a bequest may not be accepted can be found in each medical school's information booklet.
Will my body be treated with respect?
Absolutely. Medical schools have a very strict Code of Practice that is strongly adhered to. Students are made aware that an essential part of their training relies on the generosity of the donors, and that they must treat the bodies with respect at all times.
Can I make the decision to donate a body on behalf of someone else if I have Power of Attorney?
No. The consent has to have come directly from the potential donor in writing. This can be given on a Human Tissue Act form or as a codicil in their will. Having power of attorney does not qualify you to make the decision to donate a body on someone else’s behalf.
What should my family do if a medical school cannot accept my body?
If a medical school is unable to accept your body for anatomical examination, your family will have to make the funeral arrangements.
Will medical schools pay me to donate my body?
No. Medical schools do not make any payment for such a donation. However if a body is accepted by a medical school, they will arrange and meet the cost of the eventual cremation, unless your next of kin want to make their own arrangements and meet the costs involved.
Are the bodies cremated in a mass cremation?
No. Each body is cremated individually, prior to which is a short service.
Can my family have my ashes?
Yes - arrangements can be made for your next of kin or executor to receive your ashes.