Calls for East Sussex donors to give blood

Existing and new blood donors are being asked to come forward to ensure there are vital supplies for patients.

Michelle Laserna, from NHS Blood and Transplant said: “We realise that when the schools break for summer that there are holidays and days out planned and it can be easy to put off giving blood.

“We’re asking you try to keep your appointment if at all possible but if you can’t, then please let us know by calling 0300 123 23 23 so that your appointment can be offered to someone else.”

As red blood cells only have a shelf life of 35 days and platelets a shelf life of five days, blood cannot be stockpiled.

Currently 6,000 units of blood are needed everyday to help save the lives of sick and injured patients across England and North Wales.

For some patients who have severe blood loss a blood transfusion can make the difference between life and death.

Supplies of the universal blood group O Rh Negative are especially needed. Rarer blood groups A Rh Negative, B Rh Negative and AB Rh Negative are also vulnerable to shortfall.

Visit www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23.

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