Appeal issued for new blood donors in 2018
IN 2017, 2,616 people in Leicestershire registered to give blood for the first time - will you join them in 2018 and help to save lives?
NHS Blood and Transplant is encouraging people to make a New Year’s resolution that can change someone else’s life, not just their own.
NHS Blood and Transplant needs around 200,000 new donors every year to maintain the supply for lifesaving blood donations.
Donors are needed from all blood groups and communities but there is a particular need for more people from black and Asian communities to donate to help provide the right mix of blood.
Mike Stredder, director of blood donation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “This year we are asking people in Leicestershire to focus on giving and to register to give blood. It’s easy to sign up and book your first appointment online or via our mobile phone app.
“By donating blood you will save or improve the lives of up to three people. Do something amazing in 2018. Give blood.”
In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over seven stone 12 lbs (50kg) and are aged between 17 and 66 (up to 70 if you have given blood before) you should be able to give blood.
To register to become a blood donor, visit www.blood.co.uk or download the app by searching ‘NHSGiveBlood’ in the app store. You can also call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood. co.uk