The NHS needs more black donors
At the moment the NHS need Black donors because of a rise in demand for some rare blood types that are more common in people of Black heritage.
It’s safe to give blood
Giving blood is safe and easy.
There are extra safety measures in place including:
- a self-assessment leaflet before you attend to check for coronavirus risk factors
- bigger spaces between chairs
- temperature checks before donating
- extra cleaning
- increased hand washing
- hand gel for donors to use
The need for Black donors
The increased demand for some rare subtypes, such as Ro, that are more common in people of Black heritage means we need more black people to become blood donors.
Demand for these subtypes is growing as more people have regular transfusions to treat blood disorders such as sickle cell.
Subtypes are important when someone has regular transfusions as they need blood that matches their own as closely as possible.
We need people from all communities to give blood to make sure there’s the right blood available for everyone.
Most people can give blood if they're fit and healthy. Check if you can donate.
Blood transfusions make me feel so much better
Everyone can make a difference
Whether your donation is used in an emergency, after surgery or as a part of a regular transfusion, you could help up to three people every time you give blood.
