NHS in “urgent” appeal for more blood donors in Manchester
pharmafile | July 1, 2022 | News story | |
NHS Blood and Transplant is “urgently” appealing for people to make an appointment to donate at one of the two donor centres across Manchester, as stock levels have dropped.
Stocks have been affected by staff and donor absence due to illness and the drop in donations over the summer. Both blood donor centres in Manchester are amongst the lowest filled donor centres across the country for the coming weeks.
Manchester Plymouth Grove and Manchester Norfolk House Blood Donor Centres are currently in need of donors to book appointments urgently. When combined, these venues are only 57% full for next week, and only around 40% full the week after.
O positive has the lowest blood stock, with national levels at around three days, while the NHS needs to have six. Donors with this type are particularly needed, though donors of all types are welcome, particularly O and B negative.
As hospitals struggle to catch up on the backlog of routine activity postponed due to COVID-19, demand for blood has drastically risen. Hospitals are continuing to receive all the blood they need, but more donation appointments are required to ensure stocks do not plummet again.
An NHS Blood and Transplant spokesperson said: “We currently have blood to meet demand but stocks have dropped and we need to stop them falling further – now. We urgently need more people to book appointments.
“If you are one of our amazing donors in Manchester, or you want to donate for the first time, please make and keep an appointment for the next few days or weeks.
“If you used to donate blood but haven’t done so in a while, please come back if you can – our fantastic teams across the city’s blood donor centres will be delighted to welcome you. Every appointment counts.”
Lina Adams
