London faces urgent need for B negative blood donors amid shortages

KEY INFORMATION:

• Only 1,138 registered B negative donors are currently active in London.
• B negative blood is found in just 2% of the population.
• There is a specific need for O negative and Ro subtype donors of Black heritage.
• Ro subtype is essential for treating sickle cell disorder.
• The local donation centre is located on the first floor of Westfield London in Shepherds Bush.

NHS Blood and Transplant has issued an urgent request for Hammersmith & Fulham residents with the rare B negative blood type to donate.

There are currently only 1,138 registered B negative donors across the capital. This limited number has led to concerns regarding the stability of current stocks.

B negative is one of the rarest blood groups, found in approximately 2% of the population. Health officials have identified that even a minor increase in hospital demand can put significant pressure on available units. Residents are encouraged to visit the permanent donor centre at Westfield London to support the national supply.

Critical need for specific subtypes

The call also highlights a requirement for donors with O negative blood and the Ro subtype. Donors of Black heritage are particularly needed to help treat patients with sickle cell disorder. The Ro subtype is a rare variation that is vital for the ongoing care of those with this condition.

Family members of existing Ro donors are being asked to check their own eligibility. Research indicates these relatives are 30% more likely to share the same rare group. These individuals can access priority appointments by contacting the donor service directly.

Gerry Gogarty, director of blood supply at NHS Blood & Transplant, said: "B negative donors are immensely important to our lifesaving work, but as this blood type is only found in 2% of the population, it can be a challenge to collect enough. Right now, B negative stocks are at risk of running low. Just a slight rise in hospital demand, or one or two patients suddenly requiring a high number of units, can put significant extra pressure on supplies."

The donation process and impact

Hospitals across England require approximately 5,000 blood donations every day to function. This volume is necessary for emergency surgery, childbirth, and routine medical treatments. Because blood has a shelf life of only 35 days, a constant stream of new donations is required.

The donation process typically takes one hour to complete. A single donation has the potential to save or improve up to three lives. Men are eligible to give blood every three months, while women can donate every four months.

Local donation facilities

The primary centre for local residents is situated on the first floor of the Westfield mall in Shepherds Bush. It is located between The Village and M&S. This specific centre is notable for its high engagement with younger residents. Two out of three donors at this site are aged between 17 and 44.

Residents who are unsure of their blood type can find out by attending their first donation session. New and existing donors are advised to register and book appointments online to ensure the centre can manage the flow of visitors efficiently.

OFFICIAL SOURCE VERIFICATION: This report is based on official data from Council / Local Authority. Document: Urgent call for rare B negative blood donors to come forward Source Link: https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/news/2026/03/urgent-call-rare-b-negative-blood-donors-come-forward

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