DID YOU KNOW

Over the last 10 years, there has been a 40% drop in the number of those giving blood? It’s an issue that we think it’s time to do something about. With 6,000 life saving blood transfusions taking place in the UK every single day, now more than ever, we need to ensure a safe and sufficient supply of blood. In November 2015, we secured a government review by SaBTO into the blood donation guidelines and we have led on the APPG on Blood Donation’s Inquiry into what those guidelines should look like. Put simply, we’re calling for:

A significant reduction in the current deferral period on men who have sex with men (MSM) from 12 months to 3 months;
A similar policy, in line with medical evidence, for those classified as commercial sex workers and intravenous drug users;
A commitment to review blood donor guidelines on a regular basis based on scientific evidence as part of SaBTO’s remit and according to EU regulations;
A long term ambition to work towards a truly individual risk-based policy.

At FreedomToDonate, our belief is simple: those who wish to donate blood and can do so safely, should be able to donate blood.

NUS supports a fair blood donation system which is based on an assessment of risky sexual behaviours rather than an individual’s sexual orientation.

Robbie Young, NUS LGBT Officer ,

Before I was sexually active as a gay man, I donated blood regularly. I am HIV negative and feel like my blood could really help those people who need it. The current system is dated and people like me want to help.

Gary Caplehorne, Youtuber/Activist ,

We all know someone who has needed blood at some point in their lives and with a recognised blood shortage, it’s now more important than ever to have a review on who can donate. That’s why I’m supporting FreedomToDonate.

Nigel Owens, International Rugby Union Referee ,

There are a lot of people who would want to donate blood who might not be able to with the regulations that are in place, and I don’t think that’s fair. Anything we can do to increase donations is worth doing.