UTV is supporting the UK-wide From The Heart campaign to raise awareness about organ
donation and the NHS Organ Donor Register during Valentine's week.
In a special week of activity on air and online, UTV will highlight the shortage
of available organs in Northern Ireland and across the UK.
The objective is to encourage more people to volunteer to join the Organ Donor Register
and to talk to their loved ones about their wishes.
On Wednesday 13 February Dermot O’Leary will be joined by a host of stars and comedians
for a one-hour entertainment special.
The show will feature a range of comedy and musical treats from the likes of Rowan
Atkinson, Hugh Laurie, Pixie Lott, Harry Enfield & Paul Whitehouse, the cast of
‘Outnumbered’, Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, McFly and Alexandra
Burke.
During the week, UTV Live, Daybreak and This Morning will highlight the campaign,
featuring case studies and personal stories.
Loose Women will also feature organ donation as one of their discussion topics during
the week.
Michael Wilson, UTV’s Managing Director, Television said: “Text Santa last Christmas
was a fantastic example of how we can use UTV to highlight causes and take action
to make a difference. With this campaign in February, we are again using a memorable
date in the nation's calendar to raise awareness of an issue that touches many lives."
Thirty per cent of adults in Northern Ireland are now registered as potential organ
donors.
The number of people signing up to the NHS Organ Donor Register in the region is
steadily increasing. However, there are still not enough organs available for transplant.
Around 200 people in Northern Ireland are currently awaiting organ donations, while
15 die each year while waiting.
One donor can help up to nine different people.