The NHS has launched an urgent, final plea for blood donors this year, warning the public they have just 48 hours to help save a life. Health chiefs are appealing to people across the UK to use their time off over the festive period to book one of the thousands of remaining appointments.
Critical Shortage as Festive Period Drains Stocks
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) has revealed that 2,755 donation slots at major town and city centre donor centres must be filled today and tomorrow, before the start of 2026. Stocks traditionally run low during the Christmas period, as hospitals often use more blood than is collected.
Daniel Cooper, NHSBT Assistant Director for Blood Donation Operations, stated: "Right now, we still have over 2,700 appointments available to fill between now and New Year’s Eve, with a particular need for more B negative, O negative and Ro donors." He called on eligible donors living near a centre to come forward and fill these final, life-saving slots of the year.
One Donation, Three Lives Saved
The need for donations remains constant. A single blood donation can be separated into its components—red cells, plasma, and platelets—and used to help up to three different patients. These components are vital for treating cancer, immune disorders, and for use in life-saving surgeries.
The service also faces the ongoing challenge of restocking for January, with around 50,000 slots to fill next month alone. NHSBT encourages anyone who cannot find an immediate appointment to book one for early 2026.
Inspiring Stories from Lifelong 'Super Donors'
The appeal highlights the dedication of long-term donors. Andy Stowe, 64, from Birmingham, began donating as a teenager and has since given blood, stem cells, and now donates plasma every two weeks. "Being able to donate is such an honour," he said.
Dr Christopher Black, a 31-year-old anaesthetist from Leicester, sees the impact firsthand. "At work, I see the reality of how blood can bring people back to life... It really is life-changing and life-saving," he explained, praising the unseen network of donors and staff that makes emergency treatment possible.
Available slots are primarily at permanent city centre venues in locations including London, Bristol, Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham, and Leeds. To become a donor, you can:
- Register online via the NHS Give Blood website.
- Download the NHS Give Blood app.
- Call 0300 123 23 23.
Once registered, appointments can be booked through the same channels.
