London charities collaborate with NHS Blood and Transplant inspired by Marvel Television’s Ironheart

Two London charities have collaborated with NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), inspired by Marvel Television's Ironheart, to create their own social short films to turbo-charge the drive to recruit more Black heritage blood donors and leverage the power of Marvel's much-loved stories and characters to create a positive impact on society.

The short films, created by South East London-based Black Blood Matters, and South Croydon-based African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT), use powerful storytelling and authentic voices to harness the themes such as resilience, empowerment and the realisation of potential, inspired by Marvel's Television's Ironheart.

Through a series of emotive personal testimonies, the Black Blood Matters film focuses on the transformative impact of blood donation on individuals and communities.

The charity's founder, Georgelene Elliott, and other contributors speaks candidly about the power of blood donation and the inspirational, empowering and life-changing difference it makes to the donor, the recipient and the community.

The ACLT film uses humour to mobilise the Black community. Filmed on the streets of Brixton, and featuring influencer Simply Sayo, the mini-movie shows young people responding to a text exclaiming: 'it's time'. Leaping into action, they literally drop everything to donate blood.

Statement from Mark Chambers

NHS Blood and Transplant Director of Donor Experience Mark Chambers said:

"We're always looking at innovative ways to reach new potential donors and thanks to Marvel Television, Black Blood Matters and the ACLT, we've been able to do something unique that will resonate with Black heritage communities.

"Although we have record numbers of Black heritage blood donors signing up, the need is outpacing the number new donors. We currently need 16,000 more Black heritage donors.

"Giving blood is quick, easy, and only takes around an hour of your time."

Statement from Georgelene Elliott

Georgelene Elliott, founder of Black Blood Matters said:

"It's been an incredible opportunity to collaborate with NHS Blood and Transplant on this campaign inspired by Marvel Television's Ironheart. By showcasing real voices from the community, Black Blood Matters aims to break down misconceptions and emphasise that we all have the power to save lives through simple, yet powerful acts, such as giving blood."

Statement from Beverley De-Gale, OBE and Orin Lewis, OBE

ACLT co-founders, Beverley De-Gale, OBE and Orin Lewis, OBE said:

"ACLT has proudly worked alongside NHSBT for over 2 decades, tirelessly advocating for more Black individuals to step forward and donate blood, this collaboration marks an exciting new chapter in that journey.

"Our message is unwavering; it's time to turn awareness into action, your blood could be the match a patient desperately needs, don't wait to be a hero. If you are well, able and willing, please register to become a regular blood donor and start giving blood today."

London charities collaborate with NHS Blood and Transplant inspired by Marvel Television’s Ironheart

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