The NHS has recently sent out a plea for more blood donors to come forward, as stocks are critically low. The NHS needs three blood donations every minute to deal with emergencies, operations, and childbirth. Plasma, which is involved in the development of lifesaving medicines, is also needed.

Who can give blood?

Most people who are fit and healthy can donate blood, although there are criteria which include being between the ages of 17 and 65, between a weight range of 50kg and 158kg, and having suitable veins. There are also rules about who cannot donate, which include having some forms of heart conditions, most types of cancer and having had an organ donation.

Men can give blood every 12 weeks and women can donate every 16 weeks due to the higher iron levels contained in male blood. For full details, please visit www.blood.co.uk

What happens on the day?

Prior to giving blood, please ensure that you eat regular meals, keep hydrated (with non-alcoholic drinks), and avoid excessive exercise or exertion. After booking an appointment online at the above web address, you will receive a donor safety check form which you will need to take with you on the day.

You will be given 500ml of fluid to drink prior to donation to help with your health and wellbeing during donation and after. The iron levels in your blood will be checked prior to donation to check that they are high enough to continue. This will be checked by taking a small drop of blood from your finger.

Your health and wellbeing will be monitored during your donation, and if at any time you feel uncomfortable or unwell there will be professional staff around to assist. Afterwards, it is advised that you rest within the centre for at least 15 minutes and have two drinks before leaving. A selection of beverages and snacks will be available at the centre. Before you leave you will be given a card with important care advice.

If you become unwell within two weeks after your donation or believe that your blood should not be given to another patient, you are encouraged to phone the blood centre care line on 0300 123 23 23. You are advised not to have a hot bath after the donation when you get home.

Making a positive impact

Giving blood and plasma is a quick and relatively straightforward way to help others, especially at a time when blood stock levels are running low. In recent years there has been a rise in demand for rare blood types that are more common in people of Black heritage to treat conditions such as sickle cell anaemia.

Although we need people from all communities to give blood, there are specific communities where more supplies are needed, so an increase in donors from these communities would be welcomed and encouraged. If you feel you can help with blood donation or would like to explore the process further, please visit www.blood.co.uk