UK expats can now give blood!

Great news for those who are keen to give blood but couldn’t because they lived in England between 1980 and 1996. The ban has been lifted, so you’re good to go!

August 18, 2022

Sit back, relax and save 3 lives!

One in three Australians will need a blood donation in their lifetime, while only 3% give blood every year.  

The blood you donate is precious and can be made into 22 different medical treatments. It's just 10 minutes in a chair and it could change someone’s life.  

People of all walks of life need blood products.  Some need it to get them through a serious event in their lives, like cancer or a difficult pregnancy.  Others have medical conditions which mean they need blood products regularly to stay alive or be healthy.  

Here’s where your blood goes:

  • 34% Patients with cancer and blood diseases.
  • 19% Other causes of anaemia.
  • 18% Surgical patients including open heart surgery and burns.
  • 13% Other medical problems including heart, stomach and kidney disease.
  • 10% Orthopaedic patients including fractures and joint replacements.
  • 4% Obstetrics including pregnant women, new mothers and young children.
  • 2% Trauma including road accidents.  

Before you donate

Get your paperwork together.

You’ll need to bring:

ID such as driver’s licence, passport, or your digital donor card in the Donate Blood app. You can use a combination of things for ID, as long as you can show any three of these:  

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Home address

• Signature

• Photo

Also write down or remember any medications you're taking so you can let the team know. Don’t worry if you’re feeling a bit nervous – it’s completely normal.  

  • The day before donation, drink plenty of fluids – 10 glasses for men or 8 glasses for women and try to get a good night’s sleep  
  • Three hours before donating, drink 750ml of fluids, eat something savoury and avoid strenuous exercise.  
  • Once you have donated, relax in the chair for a few minutes; then head over to the refreshments area for a snack for another 15 minutes. Make sure you grab a juice or water on the way out.  

For 8 hours after your blood donation, drink plenty more fluids (aim for at least 750ml) and avoid spending too much time on your feet. Try not to overheat, so avoid hot showers, hot drinks or rushing around; also, eat regular meals and stay away from alcohol.  

For at least 12 hours afterwards, avoid strenuous exercise (like cycling, jogging, or going to the gym) or hazardous activities, including activities or jobs where public safety may be affected. Check any employment or safety requirements you have. If unsure, please discuss at your interview.

Most people feel great after they donate, but if you feel unwell at any point, please call 13 14 95.  

And look out for the text that you receive when your blood is used!

More convenience

  • The blood collection service has now started taking appointments from 7am so you could go on the way to work.  
  • You can give blood a week after your COVID vaccination and straight away after the flu vaccination.  
  • If you make an appointment but can’t attend – please cancel so they can fill the spot with another donor. If you simply don’t turn up, it’s a wasted opportunity.  

Visit the website or download the Lifeblood App for more information.  

Check your eligibility here:

https://www.donateblood.com.au/eligibility#can-i-give-blood  

Source: donateblood.com.au

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