Drive to increase blood stocks for 2012 events

Buy photos » Donors in London raising awareness for the need of a 30 per cent increase in blood stocks ahead of a busy summer.

NEW and existing blood donors are urgently needed after health bosses raised fears stocks could be depleted this summer as residents are distracted by other events.

WIth the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in June and London Olympic and Paralympics taking placen, it is estimated a 30 per cent increase in blood supplies is needed to ensure there is enough to meet demand. The concern is people will forget or be unable to give as they usually do because they will be watching or attending the high-profile events.

And with the influx of overseas tourists expected, extra blood stocks of all types are going to be needed.

Bromsgrove currenty has 2,830 active donors - people who have donated in the past two years - who provide an average of 5,079 units of blood per year.

Jon Latham, spokesman for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: "This year we have a unique situation and need donors to help counterbalance the inevitable dip in donations as people celebrate a memorable summer for the whole country.

"We need to adjust the mix of stocks so we are well prepared as a responsible host for these exciting events.”

People of all blood types are welcomed to donate however there is particular national demand for O positive (52 per cent increase needed) and O negative (43 per cent).

Appointment times have been introduced to make it more convenient for people to give and men can also donate up to four times a year, providing they leave 12 weeks between sessions.

Women can give blood up to three times in twelve months because anymore increases the chance of them getting anaemia.

People in good health, aged 17 to 65 and who weigh at least 50kg (7st 12lb) can donate.

The next donation sessions in Bromsgrove will take place at the Spadesbourne Suite, Burcot Lane, between 1.30pm and 3.30pm and from 4.30pm to 7.30pm next Friday (May 25).

To book an appointment, call 0300 123 23 23.

For more on giving blood, visit www.visit blood.co.uk or call the number above.

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