BLOOD, plasma and platelet donors in all Tiers are urged by the NHS to keep attending appointments as normal following the latest government announcement. 

Earlier today, Wednesday, December 30, Health Secretary Matt Hancock gave an update to the House of Commons following a review of the Tier system as Covid-19 cases rise across the country.

It was announced that Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole will enter Tier 4 of the coronavirus restrictions - with the rest of Dorset moving into Tier 3.

The changes will come into effect from Thursday, December 31. 

Despite this, giving blood and plasma – including in Tier 3 and Tier 4 – is classed as essential travel and donation sessions will stay open, with appointments remaining as normal.

Extra safety measures are in place and will work alongside a temperature check for donors on arrival, available hand gel and washing facilities and extra cleaning conducted by staff.

Donors are also spaced apart and face coverings are worn by all. 

Donors are asked to keep to their appointment if they can, providing they are fit and healthy, to help build blood stocks ahead of a potentially challenging winter period.

An extra 1,500 units of blood is currently needed every week and extra appointments have been added across the country to help meet this need. 

Permanent donor centres in major towns and cities generally have the best appointment availability.

The only two days of the year that blood donations are not collected is Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

You can book an appointment by calling 0300 123 23 23, downloading the NHS Give Blood app, or visiting: blood.co.uk.