Human Tissue Authority

Our annual report and accounts from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 has been published. To read about our performance, finances and accountability:

www.hta.gov.uk

Do I need a HTA licence? 🤔

You may need a licence for human tissue uses including:

Anatomical examination
Understanding the cause of death
Public display
Clinical audit
Education or training
Research

See the full list and how to apply 🔎

https://lnkd.in/etgFtU2J

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is seeking to appoint a new Chair of the HTA.

As Chair, you’ll provide leadership, challenge, and direction to ensure we continue to be a first-class regulator of human tissue. Applications close at mid-day 16 September 2026.

For further information and to apply: GOV.UK

Organ donation saves lives. 💗

In the UK, around 8,000 people are currently waiting for a transplant. You can make a difference by registering your decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register at www.nhsbt.nhs.uk.

All organ donation in the UK must be free and voluntary. Paying for an organ, or receiving payment for one, is a criminal offence under UK law, carrying up to three years in prison.

This is the case even if the crime has been committed abroad.

Body donation is arranged directly with a medical school (not via the HTA).

HTA licenses and inspects establishments but we do not accept donations or process donor forms.

To find the contact details of your nearest medical school see our “find a medical school” tool on our website 🔗 https://www.hta.gov.uk/medical-schools

Our regulatory alerts are issued when immediate action may be required to protect patient safety.

Regulatory updates are issued about regulatory changes or activity requiring action or awareness.

See the list on our website 📌 https://www.hta.gov.uk/guidance-professionals/regulatory-alerts

Guidance for professionals working in the Public Display sector...

- Licensing standards and guidance
- Sale of bodies, body parts and tissue policy
- Storage of human material for teaching by schools and colleges
- Imported material

https://www.hta.gov.uk/guidance-professionals/guidance-sector/public-display

Find out more about living organ donation and how it’s regulated

- The Independent Assessment process
- Living donor matching websites
- Types of living organ donation
- The role of the HTA and NHSBT
- Travelling abroad for organ transplants

Read more: https://www.hta.gov.uk/guidance-public/body-organ-and-tissue-donation/living-organ-donation

Our Codes of Practice and standards offer practical guidance for professionals conducting activities under the HTA’s remit.

Find them here: https://ow.ly/K7HO50SyJ6Z