Bishop John Davies
A Bishop is calling churches to help raise the profile of blood donation in their local communities to mark this year’s National Blood Week and World Blood Day (June 14).
The Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Davies, hopes churches will encourage people to register as donors, donate together and take up the challenge of becoming “donor churches” as part of the national fleshandblood campaign, which is supported by the Church in Wales.
Communities and congregations can register as blood donors this week by visiting www.fleshandblood.org/blood/register or by texting ‘FAB Blood’ to 62323 in England and Wales. In addition to new registrations, existing blood donors are being asked to book a date to donate blood.
Local churches are also being provided with practical tools and ideas to promote donation through the “Church Challenge” www.fleshandblood.org/churchchallenge, with those taking part receiving personalised certificates signed by the Chief Executive of NHS Blood and Transplant, Lynda Hamlyn.
Bishop John said, “Donating blood helps save the lives of our neighbours – it is literally a gift of life. That is why the Church is supporting the fleshandblood campaign which is responding to a real need in our communities. By raising awareness, encouraging discussion and providing ways to give, churches could play a significant role in transforming the lives of others through donation.”
A survey, conducted by Christian Research on behalf of fleshandblood found that 10% of Christians have given blood in the last year compared to 4% of the general population who have given blood in the last two years.
Sponsored by Give.net and in association with denominations, organisations and festivals including the Church in Wales, the Church of England, The Salvation Army, Methodist Church, United Reformed Church, Baptist Union, Church of Ireland, Church of Scotland, Seventh Day Adventist Church, Hope and Evangelical Alliance, the fleshandblood campaign marks the first time the NHS has worked alongside the church on a national initiative of this kind.
Every blood donation saves or improves the lives of up to three people. In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over 7 stone 12 lbs (50kg) and are aged between 17 and 66 (up to 70 if you have given blood before) you should be able to give blood. If you are over 70, you need to have given blood in the last two years to continue donating.
For more information about the fab Church Challenge visit www.fleshandblood.org/churchchallenge or contact [email protected] Twitter: @fleshandblood Facebook: fleshandblooduk
