Give Blood Saturday 18th February in Formby to save a life

NHS Blood & Transplant have a blood donation session at Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Formby on Saturday 18th of February, 2017.

Why give blood

Giving blood saves lives. The blood you give is a lifeline in an emergency and for people who need long-term treatments.

Many people would not be alive today if donors had not generously given their blood.

Why we need you to give blood

We need over 6,000 blood donations every day to treat patients in need across England. Which is why there’s always a need for people to give blood.

Each year we need approximately 200,000 new donors, as some donors can no longer give blood.

Most people between the ages of 17-65 are able to give blood.

Around half our current donors are over 45. That's why we need more young people (over the age of 17) to start giving blood, so we can make sure we have enough blood in the future.

Blood groups and types needed now

We need more donors from all blood groups and types. We particularly need more people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities to give blood so that we have a supply of certain blood types.

Preparing to give blood

Follow our tips to make your blood donation experience pleasant, safe and straightforward.

Eat

Eat regular meals to help you avoid feeling lightheaded. Please do not donate if you are in a period of fasting.

Sleep

A good night's sleep will boost wellbeing.

Drink

Drink plenty of fluids 24 hours before donating, but avoid alcohol.

Wear

Put on loose and comfortable clothing, avoid tight sleeves.

Distract

Nervousness is normal, come with a friend or bring along a book or MP3 player so you can relax during your visit.

Know

Knowing your medical, body piercing and travel history will save you time.

Exercise

You can still exercise, but don't do anything more strenuous than usual: this applies before and after donating blood. Also ensure you are fully recovered and well hydrated before you donate blood.