Giving Blood in Wales

Blood stock levels in Wales are in a stable position, but the Welsh Blood Service still has over 7,000 appointments available over the summer. Donors with type O or type A blood are encouraged to donate as stocks are predicted to fall.

In Wales, we are not in an “Amber Alert” situation, and we have no plans to restrict the use of blood in hospitals, thanks to the generosity of donors across Wales who have helped maintain our blood supply chain by giving blood.

The Welsh Blood Service aims to hold around seven days of each blood type. The red cells within a blood donation last for 35 days; receiving too many donations in a short period can mean these vital donations expire before being used by a hospital. Similarly, not receiving enough donations means they would not be available when they are needed for patients. This is why a steady supply of each blood product is so important.

Appointments help manage the supply and also help predict future stock levels, allowing the Welsh Blood Service to tailor invites to the blood groups most in need. Currently, donors with type O or type A blood are encouraged to donate as these groups are predicted to fall.

The summer months are challenging for various reasons, including the rise in travel, which can defer donors for a period of time, the rise in failed screening tests due to higher levels of dehydration and lower iron levels and summer events lowering booking rates and raising non-attendance of donors with appointments.

Welsh Blood Service Director, Alan Prosser, said:

“Stock is in a stable position in Wales right now thanks to the generosity of donors across the country. However, stocks are predicted to fall between now and September, and we still have the challenge of filling over 7,000 appointment slots before the end of the summer holiday period.

“We know this time can be difficult with trips abroad and making the most of the warmer weather, making it harder for people to find time to give blood, but it’s vital we continue to maintain a steady supply of blood products to the hospitals.

“We’re particularly calling for donors with type O or type A blood as these groups are in high demand right now.

“Making the most of every appointment slot we have really makes a difference in the summer. If you do book, please try your best to attend. If you are unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible, as we will be able to fill this slot with a replacement donor.

“If you have never given blood before, please consider taking that leap and giving blood over the next few months if you’re over 17 years old. It really does save lives, and now is the perfect time to start donating.”

Click here or call 0800 252 266 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm) to book a lifesaving blood donation today.