Why we need more donors of Black heritage

At the moment we need more people of Black heritage to grow the number of blood donors with well-matched blood to help those with sickle cell disorder.

In recent years, there has been a rise in demand for some rare blood types that are more common in people of Black heritage, including people of Black-African, Black-Caribbean and Mixed ethnicity.

The need for more people of Black heritage to give

The increased demand for some rare blood subtypes, such as Ro, that are more common in people of Black heritage means we need more Black people to become blood donors.

Donors from Black heritage communities provide better matched blood to those who need it.

Demand for these subtypes is growing as more people have regular transfusions to treat blood disorders such as sickle cell.

Subtypes are important when someone has regular transfusions as they need blood that closely matches their own.

We need people from all communities to give blood to make sure there’s the right blood available for everyone.

Most people can give blood if they’re in good general health. Check if you can donate.

Sign up to donate blood

Cianna has received three transfusions. Receiving blood literally saved her life. We are eternally grateful for everyone that has donated blood. The difference it makes is priceless

Cianna smiling

Cianna has sickle cell

Everyone can make a difference

Whether your donation is used in an emergency, after surgery or as a part of a regular transfusion, you could help up to three people every time you give blood.

The entire process is swift and smooth, and it only takes an hour from start to finish. Knowing my one donation can help to save up to three lives really warms my heart

Sam and David