A PUBLIC consultation on the code of practice accompanying the new Human Transplantation (Wales) Act is to be launched.

The consultation, launched by the Human Tissue Authority (HTA), the watchdog which ensures human tissue and organs are used safely and ethically, will run from October 1 until December 23. The code of practice offers practical advice on the implementation of the Act, due to come into force on December 1, 2015, as well as guidance in situations where someone’s consent to donate their organs is not clear or when decisions are potentially complex.

This could include people who have homes in Wales and England, or where families feel very strongly about decisions made by the deceased in life. HTA chief executive, Alan Clamp said: “This code of practice is about the day to day application of the legislation, ensuring health professionals work in the right way and that decisions about consent are not made without guidance. We want to hear from as many people as possible to ensure this code meets the needs of the people using it, and that it is both clear and accessible.”

The draft code of practice and consultation will be available at www.hta.gov.uk from October 1.