Plea for more blood donors

HEALTH chiefs are appealing for fit and healthy people to donate blood and save lives.

Figures show that only four per cent of the eligible population donate regularly and new donors are always needed.

The NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) team are hoping that people will use the extra hour as the clock’s go back to give blood.

Craig Taylor from NHSBT said: “The need for blood is constant and we are calling on people to find that extra hour in a day to come and give blood.

“Hospitals need to be stocked up and thanks to dedicated donors, this is made possible. “The autumn provides us with an extra hour as the clocks go back, so we would encourage donors to take advantage of this and help save a life.”

Blood is used in accident and emergency situations as well as to treat a range of illnesses like cancer, anaemia and premature babies.

Each blood donation can be split into component parts, so just one unit of donated blood can be used to help save the lives of three people.

The next session in Rotherham will take place on November 11 from 12.30pm to 2.30pm and 4pm until 7pm at The Hub, 103 Canklow Road, Rotherham.

Anyone aged between 17 and 65, weighing more than 50 kg and in general good health is eligible.

There is no upper age limit for donors who have donated in the last two years.

For more information call 0300 1232323 or visit www.blood.co.uk.

Related topics: