Take the time to save a life this summer

As the summer months stretch ahead NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is reminding blood donors to find time to donate. As people enjoy barbeques, summer holidays and outdoor sports making time to donate can slip down the list of priorities. But with blood being in constant demand and hospitals being one hundred percent reliant on volunteers, donors are urged to come forward.  Blood donors can donate three times a year and the process of giving blood takes around an hour, with the actual donation taking about ten minutes. Booking an appointment in advance minimises your waiting time and allows you to select a location and time to donate that suits you. Craig Taylor spokesperson from NHSBT, said: “It is important that both existing and new blood donors come forward and donate now and regularly. It isn’t an exaggeration to call them lifesavers, as without them vital supplies of blood wouldn’t be available for patients.” To become a donor you need to be aged between 17 and 65, weigh more than 50 kg (7 stone 12lbs) and be in general good health. There is no upper age limit for donors who have donated in the last two years. To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk The next session is at Syston Catholic Church on Tuesday 20th July. This session has appointments available throughout the day until 8.00pm, ideal for those who would like to drop in after work!