Our History
For almost 40 years, New Start has been supporting patients and families affected by heart and lung transplantation, alongside the development of one of the UK's leading transplant centres at Wythenshawe Hospital.
From the first heart transplant in 1987 to the centre reaching the milestone of 1,500 heart and lung transplants in 2025, the story of transplant at Wythenshawe is one of innovation, dedication and continued progress.
Key milestones
1986 – New Start is founded
New Start Charity is established, beginning a long-standing commitment to supporting patients and families affected by heart and lung disease and transplantation.
1987 – The first heart transplant
The first heart transplant is performed at Wythenshawe, marking the beginning of the transplant programme.
Late 1980s–1990s – The programme expands
The transplant service grows into a full cardiothoracic transplant centre, including heart–lung transplantation and an increasing number of referrals from across the region.
1993 – A dedicated transplant centre opens
A dedicated transplant centre is formally opened at Wythenshawe Hospital, providing specialist facilities for transplant patients and their care.
1997 – Investment in transplant research
A fully equipped transplant research laboratory is established, supporting research and innovation in transplantation.
2000s–2010s – Advancing transplant care
The centre develops its use of advanced mechanical circulatory support, including LVADs and ECMO, alongside improvements in donor assessment and preservation techniques.
2014 – 1,000 transplants
The centre reaches the significant milestone of approximately 1,000 transplants performed.
2025 – 1,500 heart and lung transplants
Wythenshawe reaches a major milestone of 1,500 heart and lung transplants performed as a combined centre.
2026 – New Start celebrates 40 years
In September 2026, New Start celebrates 40 years of supporting patients, families and the transplant community.
Transplantation today
Today, Wythenshawe Hospital, part of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, is one of the UK's specialist heart and lung transplant centres.
The centre acts as a national referral centre, caring for patients from across the North West and beyond. Alongside transplantation, the service provides advanced forms of circulatory and respiratory support and continues to contribute to innovation in transplant care.
Pioneering work
The centre is recognised for pioneering work in areas including:
- Donor heart preservation
- Mechanical circulatory support, including LVADs and Impella
- ECMO
- Ex-vivo lung perfusion (EVLP)
Around 60 heart, lung and LVAD-related procedures are carried out each year, reflecting the breadth of specialist care provided by the transplant team.
Looking to the future
While the achievements of the past 40 years are something to celebrate, transplant care continues to evolve. New Start remains committed to supporting the specialist teams, research and services that help improve outcomes and quality of life for patients before and after transplant.