A new campaign to encourage blood donations in Manchester is being launched ahead of Valentine’s Day.
‘What’s Your Type’ is an event where trained NHS Blood and Transplant staff test your blood with a finger prick test, to find out your blood type. The test only takes a few minutes and you are able to see the results live in front of you.
The campaign aims to increase awareness of blood types, educate on how each one contributes to saving lives, and recruit more priority donors to meet hospital demand.
A spokesman for NHS Blood and Transplant said:
“There is a rising need for certain key blood types and between 2014 to 2018, there was a 13 per cent increase in the proportion of O negative being issued to hospitals. O negative is the universal donor group which can be given to almost anyone.
“NHS Blood and Transplant welcome new donors of every blood type, however, we urgently need new blood donors with O negative, A negative, and B negative as these are the priority blood types.
“The NHS particularly needs more black people to donate blood. People from black communities are more likely to have the blood disorder sickle cell which can mean they need regular blood transfusions. Donors from the same ethnic background are more likely to have matching blood.”
People taking the test can also register as new donors. NHS Blood and Transplant always needs new blood donors to replace those who can’t donate anymore and to ensure we have the right mix of donors to meet patient needs now and in the future.”
Mike Stredder, NHS Blood and Transplant Director of Blood Donation, said:
“People are always curious to find out their blood type and why it is special. What’s Your Type events are a fun way to find out and we’d love people to come along and learn how their group is special for saving lives – and you might meet your perfect match.
“We need new blood donors in order to ensure we have the right blood to help patients. We need 4,900 donors this February alone at our donation centres. It’s quick and easy to donate. But if you can’t find an appointment, don’t worry – book in the future as we need life-savers every day.”
One blood donation can save or improve the lives of up to three people.
There are two dedicated donor centres in Manchester:
- Norfolk House Donor Centre in Norfolk Street
- Plymouth Grove Donor Centre in Plymouth Grove
Visit your local centre or book an appointment online here.