The Mayor of Ards has joined the drive to save lives, supporting the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service’s (NIBTS’) campaign calling for local people to step forward and donate blood.

The lives of many patients IN Northern Ireland depends on blood or platelet transfusions, making it essential to ensure that local stocks are continually restocked, as the Mayor of Ards, Councillor Philip Smith explains: “Blood has only a very limited life span and stocks constantly need replenished, with The Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service needing to attract 200 new donors every week simply to meet demands” he said, “Becoming a blood donor only takes about 40 minutes  of your time - after a health check, assessment of iron levels and a donor interview, the donation itself takes just over six minutes and then it’s time for a quick rest and refreshment - but you could be saving someone’s life!”.

Clinic officials from the NIBTS explained that 94% of the eligible population still do not give blood, describing the Mayor’s support and efforts as crucial in inspiring community participation.

Paul McElkerney, a spokesperson for NIBTS, said:  “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Mayor of Ards, Councillor Philip Smith, for his support in encouraging the many needed new donors to come forward”, he continued, “Literally speaking, every time you donate blood within four or five days you could save someone’s life.”

The NIBTS exists to fully supply the needs of all hospitals and clinical units in the province with safe and effective blood and blood products and other related services.  The blood is used in numerous ways, such as going to a child with leukaemia, a mother during childbirth, a person undergoing routine surgery, a person with cancer, or someone involved in an accident.

To find out more about the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service or to donate blood telephone Telephone 0500 534 666, Text BLOOD to 60081 or Email inet@nibts.hscni.net

Pictured - Ards Mayor Philip Smith is encouraging Ards residents to give blood.