Lifeblood call for more donors as 1300 more blood donations needed in WA this Easter long weekend

Red Cross Lifeblood is urgently calling on people with type O and A blood to donate as reserves face significant pressure this Easter.

More than 1300 blood donations are needed in WA between 31 March and 10 April to ensure blood is available for people who need it.

With fuel supply disruptions also impacting the ability for some donors to get to a donation centre in regional areas, Lifeblood is urging those able to book in an appointment now.

Lifeblood donor experience director Cath Stone said while donations surged after the Bondi attack, appointments had dipped in the lead-up to Easter.

“We saw an extraordinary response from people across Australia in December, with record numbers of donations from the community during a time of need,” she said.

“The need for blood continues well beyond any single event. Blood is needed every day, and demand can spike around Easter due to increased road accidents and ongoing cancer treatment needs, at a time when many regular donors take a break.

“Right now, we need more type O and A donors, and we know 23,000 of the first-time donors who gave after the attack were type O or A donors.”

Plasma donations are also in demand, accounting for around half of all donations needed this Easter long weekend.

Donations are especially needed on Good Friday, with many donor centres opening nationwide and operating across the entire long weekend.

To book a donation visit lifeblood.com.au, use the Lifeblood app or call 13 14 95.