NHS Blood and Transplant launches dedicated group booking service for Black heritage blood donors

NHS Blood and Transplant has officially launched its new group booking service specifically for Black heritage blood donors. This initiative creates a more welcoming and connected experience for giving blood. For the first time, friends, colleagues, societies, churches, and community organisations can book appointments together on dedicated days. 

Whether you're a first-time donor joining with a friend, or as part of a larger group, this service makes it easier to give blood side by side. 

Why this matters

Black heritage donors are urgently needed to provide the best care for people living with sickle cell disorder. Patients often rely on regular blood transfusions, and the most compatible matches typically come from donors of the same ethnicity. 

Currently, only half of transfusions for sickle cell patients are the best possible match. Every extra unit of blood donated by a Black heritage donor brings us closer to closing this gap. 

Upcoming dedicated sessions

Brixton Donor Centre, London - Saturday 20th September 

Stratford Donor Centre, London - Thursday 25th September 

Birmingham Donor Centre - Saturday 27th September 

Manchester Plymouth Grove Donor Centre - Saturday 27th September 

How to take part 

Booking is simple: 

Visit the group booking page

New donors must sign up at blood.co.uk to get their Donor ID before booking. 

Please advise donors to check eligibility before booking: eligibility check and travel check. This helps to avoid anyone being unable to donate on the day.