Plasma of Hope, a charity supporting people living with genetic blood disorders, hosted events at New Cross and Walsall Manor Hospitals last week to raise awareness about blood donation and improve access to lifesaving, ethnically matched blood types.
For patients living with sickle cell and thalassemia – conditions that affect how well the blood carries oxygen – ongoing access to rare blood subtypes, such as RO, is critical.
With such conditions being more prevalent in those of African and Caribbean heritage, the events aimed to increase blood donor registration amongst those communities especially.
Staff from NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), who supported on the day, checked the eligibility of passers by with a quick finger prick test before inviting them to book an appointment to donate.
Marie-Claire Kofi, Founder and CEO of Plasma of Hope, said: “Those who met with us were curious and asked great questions – it’s been wonderful to see.
“Every conversation matters!”
Feedback from attendees was positive, including this comment from one visitor who said: “I feel great to be helping the community today by registering to donate blood.
“I have always wanted to do this and really pleased I got the chance today.”
Around 19,000 people in the UK are living with sickle cell and many rely on regular blood transfusions.
The events saw a combined total of 31 people register as new blood donors, with nine of those being of Black heritage. Their donations have the potential to save or improve 75 adult lives, and 150 infant lives.
Kerry Bentley, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT), said: “Here at both RWT and Walsall Healthcare, we are proud to have supported these events which coincided with Black History Month 2026.
“While the national campaign is largely about celebrating Black history, culture and achievement, it is also a chance to take positive action for the future. Thank you to all those who registered as donors, as your contribution will go on to make a big difference.”
Andrew Haill, Community Engagement Co-ordinator at NHSBT, is encouraging others to sign up.
“We understand some may feel nervous about donating blood, especially if they have never done it before, however our teams are trained to help people feel comfortable throughout their appointment.
“Blood donation is a safe and straightforward process, and every donor makes an incredible difference to patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions.”
Find out more about blood donation and book an appointment at blood.co.uk