You don’t have to have blue blood to celebrate this June
People in Tower Hamlets are being urged to create
their own milestone as the Queen reaches 60 years on the throne –
by renewing their commitment to giving blood or donating for the
first time.
While the Queen will be marking her Diamond
Jubilee, donors can give blood and save lives.
They can expect a royal welcome at sessions
and the knowledge that their donation can potentially save the
lives of three adults or seven babies.
It is especially important to give blood
around Bank Holidays, when donations traditionally dip as routines
get disrupted.
This latest push is part of an ongoing
campaign to boost blood stocks to 30% above the usual levels before
the Olympics.
The increase is needed because of the
unusually high number of public events this summer which will see a
high number of visitors heading to the UK.
Jon Latham, spokesperson for NHS Blood and
Transplant, said: “The Diamond Jubilee is the first in a series of
exciting events for the UK but we are asking people to remember
hospital patients. Blood will be needed during the celebrations, as
it is every day, so we would urge people to book an appointment
now.”
Anyone aged between 17-65, weighing more than
50 kg (7 stone 12lbs) and in general good health could potentially
start saving lives by becoming a blood donor. There is no upper age
limit for donors who have donated in the last two years.
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 waiting times and allows you to select a location
and time to donate that suits you.
To find out more about blood sessions or to
book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit
http://www.blood.co.uk.
Blood donation sessions in Tower Hamlets in May and
June
Britannia International Hotel
163 Marsh Wall
Canary Wharf
E14 9SJ
- May 28, 9.30-11.30am and 1-4pm
London Marriott Hotel
22 Hertsmere Road
West India Quay
E14 4ED
- May 21, 10-11.30am and 1-4pm
The Ecology Pavilion
Off Grove Road, Mile End Park
Mile End
E3 5TW
Docklands Settlement Centre
197 East Ferry Road
Isle of Dogs
E14 3BA
- June 19, 1-3pm and 4.30-7.30pm
Visit http://www.blood.co.uk or call 0300
123 23 23 for more information or to book an appointment.