Coronavirus: latest advice
Blood and platelet stocks are good but please keep donating. Blood donation is considered essential travel
Thank you to all the donors who are keeping blood and platelet levels steady during the coronavirus pandemic.
Dealing with COVID-19 has resulted in some challenges to our usual blood service and introduced the need to collect plasma for COVID-19 research. This has meant some last-minute changes for donors and we are sorry to have cancelled a number of appointments.
Our latest advice to donors is:
- Please keep your appointment if you can. Our centres are open and running as normally as possible.
- Be reassured that we will look after you. Extra safety measures are in place for donors and staff and we are encouraging donors to wear face coverings.
- Be aware of the criteria for giving blood during coronavirus - check this page for advice.
- We are doing our best to tell you in advance about cancellations. If you can re-book please plan it a few months away to help us balance the blood supply.
Giving blood during COVID-19
If you are hoping to donate soon, please read the following information links before you come.
Check you are ok to attend a session and able to donate – there are health rules specific to the coronavirus situation
Check for cancellations – we will text or email you if we can. There are also session cancellations listed regularly online
Be aware of safety measures - you will experience new coronavirus safety at sessions
Registration delays - First-time donors may experience delays in registration because so many people are keen to donate – find out more about joining our donor community
Coronavirus advice for donors
Your coronavirus questions
Am I allowed to come and give blood despite social distancing?
Yes. Travelling to donate is allowed because it helps meet the medical needs of vulnerable people.
Can I donate if I think I've had coronavirus?
You should confirm your situation before coming to donate.
Is it safe to come and donate?
Yes. We have introduced several changes to give donors confidence about hygiene and social distancing.
Find out more about what we are doing.
Do I have to wear a face mask?
In line with government guidance, we are encouraging you to wear a face covering when you give blood. The face covering doesn't have to be a surgical mask but should cover your nose and mouth.
You can choose to donate without a face covering if you wish.
Why is my appointment cancelled?
Due to coronavirus changes, we have had to cancel some appointments and some of our blood donation sessions may occasionally close or be temporarily relocated. We will always try to contact you to let you know.
Find out about closed sessions.
Will my blood be tested for coronavirus?
No we do not test for coronavirus because there is no evidence it is transmitted through blood donation.
I'm over 70, can I donate?
We are sorry - due to government guidelines people aged 70 or over and those in vulnerable health are currently unable to donate.
Do you need new donors?
We always need new donors to replace the ones who are unable to give because of illness or other circumstances.
The first step is to register. As we’re very busy at the moment you may find getting a donor account is delayed, but don’t worry we will be in touch with you.
Once you are fully registered you can book your first appointment. For new donors, this is likely to be some months away. We will need you most later in the year as we feel the impact of coronavirus
Find out more about becoming a blood donor.
Can I donate plasma for research into COVID-19?
We are collecting convalescent plasma from people who have recovered from a confirmed case of coronavirus.
You cannot donate plasma at a normal blood donation appointment.
