Blood banks urge donors to keep giving over Christmas

December sessions at local leisure centres are still accepting bookings, while those already due to attend are urged not to cancel.

Two sessions will take place at Maltby Leisure Centre on High Street, Maltby, on Friday, December 15 — one from 12.45pm to 3pm and one from 4.15pm to 7pm.

Another will happen at Rotherham Leisure Complex, Effingham Road, from 9.30am to 1.30pm on Sunday, December 31.

Richard Shortland, head of donor marketing for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “Blood stock levels can dip over the busy festive period as Christmas shopping, celebrations and holidays mean giving blood can slip off to-do lists.

“But we need our loyal donors in Rotherham more than ever at this time of year, to help us meet increased demand from hospitals.”

He added: “Please make and keep a date to donate in December.

“If you need to cancel please give us at least three days’ notice so we can open up the appointment to another donor.

“It's quick and easy to make, view and change appointments online or via our mobile app.”

The service is seeking donors of all ethnicities — some disorders are more common in certain communities and those of the same background are more likely to have matching blood types.

Visit www.blood.co.uk or telephone 0300 123 2323 to book an appointment.

Alternatively, download the NHSGiveBlood app from your device’s app store.