WHAT’S THE ISSUE?

Under current guidelines, there are a number of restrictions around who is able to donate blood. This includes a 3 month deferral period on men who have had sex with men – effectively preventing gay and bi men from being able to donate. We already have a policy which assesses risk, via a questionnaire potential donors answer when they go to give blood. By adding further questions to more accurately and individually assess risk, we would not only have a fairer system, but unlock the potential of thousands of new safe donors from the gay and bi community.

WHY?

The UK government’s advisory committee, The Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO) undertook a review in 2011 into the deferral criteria that we are campaigning on. Based on the scientific and statistical evidence they had, they made recommendations that were subsequently adopted on the deferral criteria of those able to give blood.

In 2017, we were proud to be part of the group which helped to overturn the 12 month deferral period and reduce it down to three – but we were never going to stop there.

With NHS Blood & Transplant’s own target of a 26% increase in the number of new, first time male donors, it’s time to once again look at how all those who wish to donate and could do so safely can.

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED?

Signing our petition will help demonstrate the public support for this policy and will strengthen our position with decision makers who have the power to change these rules. You can also show your support by contacting us and telling us why you support the #FreedomToDonate using the contact form which can be found here.

Follow us on Twitter and ‘like’ us on Facebook to keep up to date with news about our latest progress, events and ways in which you can get involved and spread the word.