This National Blood Week (8-14 June), we want to thank our incredible community of blood donors and partners - the giving types who keep the nation's blood flowing every single day. Whether supporting those fighting sickle cell disease, providing a lifeline in an emergency, or helping those undergoing complex surgery, our donors and the organisations that champion them; are there when it matters most.
But right now, the NHS is missing some vital blood types - and your network could hold the answer.
In just one hour, you can save up to three lives. This year, we particularly need:
O negative - The Universal Life-Saver
Only 8% of the population has O negative blood, yet it accounts for around 13% of hospital requests. Air ambulances and emergency response vehicles carry O negative supplies to save lives at the scene. If you're O negative, you are the missing type.
B negative - The Rare Essential
Found in only 2% of people, B negative blood is critical for bone marrow transplants and specialised surgeries. Because it is so rare, maintaining a steady supply is a constant challenge. Could you be the missing type?
Ro and Black Heritage Donors - Essential for Sickle Cell
The Ro subtype is vital for people living with sickle cell disease. A single patient may need up to 100 units of blood per year. People of Black heritage are ten times more likely to carry the Ro subtype, making Black heritage donors the best match for sickle cell treatment. Demand for Ro blood is growing by 10 - 15% every year - we are urgently missing these donors.
Only 2% of the population carries the Ro subtype, but closely matched blood reduces the risk of life-threatening reactions and long-term complications for sickle cell patients. If you are of Black heritage, you could be the missing type we most need.
Visit the NHS Plasma Centre on Level 1 opposite Urban Outfitters today.