Welcome to WOVEN

Welcome to the LaW, regulatiOn and LiVing kidnEy doNor (WOVEN) study.

WOVEN explores the relationship between the living kidney donation pathway and the legal and regulatory framework guiding this process in England and Wales. The study forms part of Bonnie Venter‘s empirical component of her doctoral research.

Background

Living kidney donation is governed by a multitude of legal sources. One of the functions of the law is to protect the donor – this is achieved by acting in public interest and necessitating informed consent as the legal and ethical basis for living kidney donation. The legal framework sets out the assessment process of the donor. The aim of this assessment is to ensure the suitability of the donor and to minimise the risk of the donation to protect the donor from unnecessary harm.

What is WOVEN investigating and why? 

WOVEN is evaluating the laws and regulations guiding the living kidney donation pathway in England and Wales. In essence, the focus is on the legal principles guiding the donor’s assessment process and how these principles determine who is allowed (or not allowed) to act as living kidney donor.

The aim of WOVEN is to gain a better understanding of the pathway and to determine whether it is operating effectively from a legal and regulatory perspective. The purpose of the research is to ensure that prospective donors are placed in a position where their interests are being protected and respected.

What is involved in the WOVEN study?

As part of the study, semi-structured interviews are being conducted. The following individuals* are invited to participate

  • Living kidney donors (as well as individuals who have been assessed but were not deemed suitable to donate).
  • Health care professionals who are involved in the care of living kidney donors.
  • Individuals who are (or were) involved with drafting organ donation and transplantation policies and / or laws.

Interviews will last 60-90 minutes and will be conducted from August to November 2021 via Zoom or MS Teams.

*Individuals from across the UK are eligible to participate.

How can I participate?

Please read the information provided under the ‘taking part in WOVEN‘ section.

If you are interested in participating in WOVEN, please contact Bonnie Venter (bonnie.venter@bristol.ac.uk).