Background There are over two million people in the UK currently living with sight loss which is predicted to increase to over four million by 2050 (Madi-Segwagwe, Bracher, Myall, et al. Palliat Med Rep. 2021;2(1):175–87). Some of the leading causes of eye diseases have an 80% reversibility rate (Vorstius Kruijff, Jansen, Muitjens, et al. Cell Tissue Bank. 2014;15(3):483–90). However, there is not enough eye tissue available nationally to meet the current needs of the population. NHSBT Tissue and Eye Services have identified hospice care as a potential source of donation following the initial results from the EDiPPP study (Long-Sutehall, Bracher, Mollart, et al. Health Soc Care Deliv Res. 2023;11(20):1–159). Our hospice was selected as a pilot site with the principle aim of setting up an eye donation (ED) service for patients who consented and were eligible.

Aim To establish and promote eye donation within the hospice inpatient unit setting. Eye donations or conversations surrounding this were not routine practice prior to this.

Methods Our hospice was assigned a regional tissue donation nurse specialist. The six month period involved training on eye donation from educational packages i.e. online resources, use of the eligibility checklist and meetings with the nurse specialist. Monthly feedback was provided and data collated on patient eligibility, conversations had, as well as the number of successful eye donors.

Results Creating culture change within the organisation has been challenging. Whilst we have had several patients consent, and one successful eye donation since the pilot started, the number of conversations with eligible patients has also increased every month. The admission proforma now has a section prompting the use of the eligibility checklist and documenting eye donation conversations. Eye donation is discussed in weekly MDT meetings and staff are more confident in initiating these conversations.

Conclusion The eye donation pilot has helped establish an important part of advance care planning discussions within our inpatient unit. Over time, we hope this will help those who have reversible eye disease and are waiting for a donor to help them see again.