Donating your body to science

Donating your body to science isn’t for everyone, but if this is something you feel you’d like to consider, here’s some information.

Body donations for anatomical examination are essential for educating future healthcare professionals, supporting medical research and improving clinical procedures. A donated body may be used to teach anatomy, support the development of surgical techniques or contribute to other scientific studies.

Is donation guaranteed after death?

No. Although medical schools endeavour to accept all donations where possible, acceptance cannot be guaranteed. Reasons for non-acceptance include:

·       A post-mortem examination has taken place.

·       Certain infectious diseases.

·       Organ donation

·       A very high or very low BMI.

·       Jaundice.

·       Certain forms of dementia.

Timing may also affect acceptance. Even where consent has been given and no non-acceptance criteria apply, donation may not be possible. For example, acceptance is less likely if death occurs during the Christmas period, because of the additional delay involved.

Will there be a funeral service?

If the body is accepted at the time of death, a funeral service (with the body) will not usually take place within normal time frames. Families may instead choose to hold a memorial service or celebration of life after donation has taken place.

Medical schools commonly retain a body for up to three years, after which funeral arrangements can be made.

How can I arrange body donation?

Only you can consent to donate your body to science. This must be arranged before death by contacting a medical school directly and completing a signed and witnessed consent form. There is no upper age limit but donors must be aged 17 or over. Once consent has been given, inform your family, close friends and GP. A copy of the consent form should also be kept with your Will.

At Tester & Jones, we understand that these conversations can feel difficult and unfamiliar. That is why we are here to support you with care, compassion and practical guidance every step of the way.

To find out more, contact the London Anatomy Office:

Tel: 020 7848 8042

Email: lao@kcl.ac.uk