On Monday (9 June), the NHS called for a million people in England to give blood, after reporting an annual shortfall of more than 200,000 donors needed to meet growing demand.
In July 2024, the NHS issued an amber alert for low blood stocks, meaning supplies were low enough to impact patient treatment.
Almost a year on, the alert remains. Without changes, the health service risks a red alert, where demand far exceeds capacity and public safety is threatened.
Currently, just 2% of the population donate regularly and 200,000 new donors are needed to get to a “safe and reliable” supply, according to NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT).
NHSBT research findings published last October show that 43% of donors (rising to 65% in those aged 25 to 44) would be more likely to donate if they had time off work to do it. Employers are urged to allow ‘donate breaks’ during 10am and 4pm on weekdays.
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Speaking to HR magazine, Sinead Wright, head of partnerships at NHSBT, said: “By offering donate breaks, companies can make a life-saving difference by supporting the NHS, and boost employee morale by providing meaningful opportunities for staff to contribute to saving and improving lives.”
Alternatively, Wright suggests using volunteering days: “Men can donate every 12 weeks and women every 16. So, a company with two volunteering days per year could split this time to allow up to four life-saving donations each year; the equivalent of up to 12 lives saved.
“Employers can also share our messaging and imagery to ensure everyone knows where, how and why they should donate blood. A range of resources can be found online or you can contact NHSBT.”
The Co-operative Bank, NatWest, Boots, Lloyds Bank, Bank of England, UBS and Circle Health Group have all recently supported NHSBT.
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David Cooper, chief people officer at hospital operator Circle Health Group, told HR magazine: “Choosing to donate blood should always be a personal choice.
“We have provided our people with a guide to understand what the process involves and how they can sign up and donate at a centre near them. To make it easier, we have also given them the opportunity to donate during work hours.
“Knowing your people is essential to avoid challenges or ambiguity. We have adopted a visible leadership model where any communication internally comes directly from the senior leader responsible. Authenticity and a good culture of transparent leadership makes it easier to bring your people with you when implementing an initiative like this.”
To register and book an appointment, go online, via the NHS Give Blood app, or call 0300 123 23 23.
