3 days ago
NHS issues urgent warning across North West and says 'this is critical'
The NHS has appealed for thousands of "missing" blood donors to come forward amid fears of shortages of the crucial O Negative type.
Figures from NHS Blood and Transplant show that some 5,463 donors in the North West region with the O Negative type made their last donation over 12 months ago. O Negative blood is particularly sought after for donations as it can be safely given to anybody.
However, a number of factors mean that stocks are dwindling, and the NHS is appealing for anyone with O Negative blood to come forward.
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Four bank holidays, Easter holidays, and half term have all been factors in a drop off over a six week period, with each of these seeing a drop in donations.
Currently, England is on an amber alert for stocks of O type blood, meaning it is critical that donors come forward to help replenish the supply.
An amber alert means that hospitals are enabled to implement emergency measures to limit blood usage and vet the use of all type O blood to preserve it for emergencies.
Gerry Gogarty, Director of Blood Supply for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: 'Our 'missing' O negative donors in the North West have the power to relieve the pressure on supplies of this vital blood type.
'If you are O negative and haven't given blood in a while, please book an appointment to donate today. Don't hesitate - patients need you now."
He added: 'Our fixed donor centres generally have the best availability. If you can't find an appointment straight away please book further ahead or keep checking back to help fill last minute appointments or cancellations.
"Every donation makes a critical difference.'
The fact that O negative can be safely given to all blood types means it is especially useful in an emergency situation. Factors such as a patient's condition or a mass casualty event can mean there is less time to check blood type.
However only eight percent of the population have this blood type, which represents around 16 percent of hospital orders.
Blood has a shelf life of 365 days, so it is vital that stocks are continually replenished.
Donating blood takes around an hour, and each donation could save up to three lives. Men can give blood every three months and women every four months.
Anyone wishing to donate blood can visit to book an appointment, use the GiveBlood app, or call 0300 123 23 23 to find your nearest session.
