People are being urged to donate blood in a bid to improve dwindling stock levels in some parts of Wales.
The Welsh Blood Service is calling on those aged between 17 and 66 to book an appointment at one of the donation drives taking place across south Wales next month.
According to latest assessments, stock levels in certain blood types are lower than normal, with some only days away from running out entirely.
Donations are needed daily by hospitals to treat patients with a range of conditions, including mothers and babies during childbirth, cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, and by patients involved in emergencies.
And with pubs and bars now reopening, violent incidents and emergencies are likely to increase which means blood requirements will also need to rise.
Alan Prosser, director of the Welsh Blood Service, said: "Every day around 350 donations are needed to help the 20 hospitals in Wales we supply, including five hospitals in south Wales.
"We've always had great support from our donors, but we're hopeful that more residents will consider becoming blood donors themselves.
"As a service, we rely on the generosity of people living in Wales to provide vital donations to patients. By giving up just one hour of your time, you have a unique opportunity to make a difference to people in your community and beyond."
Those who have received the Covid-19 vaccination or have booked an appointment will need to wait seven days after the jab before giving blood.
One donation has multiple uses as it can be split into three products: red cells, platelets and fresh-frozen plasma. That means one donation can save or improve up to three adults' or six babies' lives.
Appointments are available across south east Wales including at:
- Copthorne Hotel, Culverhouse Cross, Cardiff (May 4-5);
- Bryn Meadows Golf Hotel and Spa (May 5-6);
- Dare Community Sports Hall, Aberdare (May 6-7);
-
University of South Wales Glamorgan conference centre (May 10-11).
- Plasnewydd Community Centre in Roath, Cardif (May 10, 13 and 14);
- Llanyrafon Methodist Church Hall (May 12-13);
Additional safety measures have also been introduced at the donation sessions. Social distancing guidelines are followed, all staff wear PPE and every item is cleaned between use.
Alan continued: "If you've never donated before, try something incredible this week - sign up to donate at one of the sessions in your local area and become a lifesaver."
More than 1,250 donations of blood and blood products are needed each month to provide care to patients at Prince Charles Hospital, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, University Hospital of Wales, Nevill Hall Hospital, Royal Gwent Hospital and the Grange University Hospital.
If you are aged between 17 and 66, please book a lifesaving donation at welshblood.org.uk or call 0800 252 266.
