Notices
The Donorregister keeps records and provides information. And we also write to the general public and organisations. We sometimes do so of our own accord, and sometimes because it is stipulated in the law.
The notices vary and have a variety of objectives. Municipalities get a letter almost every year, for instance, asking them if they would make donor forms available, for example in an information rack.
Young people
One of the fixed tasks of the Donorregister is writing to young people annually. Every year, all young people who have reached the age of eighteen receive a letter in which we ask them to make a choice and to have it recorded.
There is also a donor form enclosed with the letter from the Donorregister. The personal details have already been filled in to make it easier. A return envelope is also included for sending the donor form back.
Young people who do not complete and return the donor form receive a reminder letter after a few weeks. Many young people do respond to the request to have their choice recorded in the Donorregister. The majority of young people give permission for donation.
New in the Netherlands
In October, people who have by then been living in the Netherlands for three years receive an information package. This consists of a letter from the Donorregister, a brochure and a donor form. The personal details have already been filled in to make it easier. A return envelope is also included for sending the donor form back.
Municipalities
Municipalities are obliged to make donor forms available free of charge. Everyone can ask their municipality for a donor form. Forms, folders and campaign material can be ordered via the webshop of the Dutch Transplant Foundation (NTS).
Incompetent to give consent
Everyone in the Netherlands who is twelve years of age or older can register. The only people who may not are those who are incompetent of giving consent. The Donorregister aims to provide information annually to all those involved about incompetenty to give consent and organ donation.
People who do not fully understand what organ and tissue donation involves may not have a choice recorded for them in the Donorregister. Those involved, organisations (including umbrella organisations) and parents' associations are given information in a letter.