Living kidney donation

A kidney transplant can transform the life of someone with kidney failure, offering improved health, quality of life and freedom from dialysis.

Living kidney donation involves a healthy person donating one of their kidneys to someone who needs a transplant. This may be a family member, partner or friend, or someone they do not know.

Around one third of kidney transplants in the UK are made possible by living donors. Kidneys from living donors generally offer the best long-term outcomes and transplantation can often be planned before the recipient needs to start dialysis.

Becoming a living kidney donor

Most people can live a normal, healthy life with just one kidney. However, donating a kidney is a significant decision, and the health and wellbeing of the donor are always our priority.

Anyone interested in donation undergoes a thorough assessment to ensure they are suitable and that the risks of donation are acceptably low.

Our specialist Living Donor Team at Oxford is here to provide information, answer questions and support you in making an informed decision.

Making an initial enquiry does not commit you to donation.

We also offer educational sessions for anyone wishing to learn more about living kidney donation before deciding whether to proceed.