I was pressured into refusing a blood transfusion aged 11. The Jehovah’s Witnesses’ new policy changes nothing

• Jehovah's Witnesses have updated their blood transfusion policy, but former members report the organisation continues to pressure individuals—including minors—against accepting blood products, creating ongoing safeguarding concerns.
• Children remain vulnerable to coercion regarding transfusion refusal despite policy changes, highlighting the need for clinicians to assess consent capacity independently and involve child protection services when appropriate.
• Healthcare teams should be aware that patients from this faith may face significant family/community pressure around blood products; explicit discussions about autonomy, capacity, and legal protections may be necessary, particularly for paediatric cases.

Former followers say the organisation is still putting lives at risk, despite a policy update.

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