Why we need more donors of Black heritage
Every day, people with sickle cell disorder rely on blood transfusions to stay alive. For the safest transfusion, they need blood that’s closely matched to their own. This often comes from someone of the same heritage, including people of Black-African, Black-Caribbean and Mixed ethnicity.
Only 3% of our blood donors are from Black heritage communities. This means many patients wait longer for the best match.
We urgently need 12,000 more donors of Black heritage to meet the growing demand.
Why blood from Black heritage donors is vital
- 47% of Black heritage donors have the Ro blood subtype which is vital for treating sickle cell disorder.
- Closely matched blood reduces the risk of life-threatening reactions and long-term complications.
- A person with sickle cell may need up to 100 units of blood per year.
People living with sickle cell rely on regular transfusions of closely matched blood – and that match often comes from Black heritage donors. Your donation could help save a life.
About sickle cell disorder
Sickle cell disorder is the UK’s fastest growing genetic condition. It changes the shape of red blood cells, causing extreme pain, organ damage and sometimes life-threatening complications.
Regular blood transfusions replace the sickle-shaped cells with healthy ones, helping patients live longer, healthier lives.
How your donation could help
When you give blood, we test it for type and subtype. If you’re a close match for a patient in need, your donation could be used to treat someone with sickle cell.
For patients, closely matched blood:
- improves energy and reduces pain
- helps prevent strokes in children and adults
- allows them to live more active, independent lives
Who you could help
Your blood could help someone like Chanel fight sickle cell.
"Having that first exchange transfusion honestly changed my life. I had a newfound spring in my step, I was so happy and energised that I had to tell myself to calm down as I knew I couldn’t over-exert myself." - Chanel