LCR Blood Donation Awareness Project

In the UK, around 17,000 people live with the sickle cell disease, and more than 300 babies are born with the condition each year. It’s the fastest-growing genetic condition in the country, mostly affecting people of Black, African, Caribbean, and South Asian descent.

That’s why we felt it was important to become a partner in the Liverpool City Region Blood Donation Awareness Project. Commissioned by the NHS Blood and Transplant Community Grants Programme, the campaign focuses on increasing blood donation rates within the Black community, with a particular focus on helping patients with sickle cell disease. We’re proud to be part of a dedicated team working to raise awareness, educate, and empower people of Black heritage to become life-saving blood donors.

Why This Project Matters

Sickle cell can cause severe pain, organ damage, and even be life-threatening without appropriate treatment. People who live with the disease require frequent blood transfusions are a crucial part of treatment. Patients are needing more than just one-time support – they require consistent, reliable donors.

Increasing the number of Black blood donors who share similar genetic backgrounds is often the most effective, as it reduces the risk of complications and adverse reactions – significantly improving the quality of life and outcomes for those affected by sickle cell disease.

Yet, despite the great need, there is still a shortage of Black blood donors in the UK. This project is focused on encouraging people of Black heritage to step forward, sign up, and donate blood, offering the chance to directly impact lives within their own communities.

Who is involved with the project?

We’re joining forces with GraceHola Ltd, PathLab Support, Grace Wellness CIC, University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, and the Liverpool Sickle Cell Thalassaemia Support Group to bring this project to life.

Each organisation brings unique strengths to the initiative. For example, Modupe from GraceHola Ltd focuses on outreach and education within diverse communities, while Liverpool Sickle Cell Thalassaemia Support Group offers essential support and resources for patients and families affected by blood disorders. PathLab Support provides technical expertise in blood science, and the NHS Foundation Trust contributes vital healthcare perspectives and access to hospital networks. Bringing together our time and expertise, we want to create an impactful approach to raising awareness around this healthcare challenge.

How You Can Help

The success of this project depends on community support and involvement. We’re calling on individuals, families, and community leaders to spread the word and help raise awareness about the need for Black blood donors. Blood donation only takes about an hour, but it can make a life-saving difference. Whether you’re eligible to donate or simply want to help us spread the word or become a regional ambassador, all forms of support would be greatly appreciated.

To learn more about the process and eligibility requirements, visit NHS Blood and Transplant. You can also contact Modupe at: modupe.dosunmu@graceholaconsulting.co.uk to find out how you can support or partner with us in this vital initiative 👏