There’s an appeal for blood donors in Manchester after last night’s attack, here’s how you can help

There’s been an plea for blood after last night’s attack in Manchester,  after 22 people were killed and 59 injured after a suicide bomb at an Ariana Grande concert in the Manchester Arena.

60 ambulances were sent to the scene at 10:30 last night, and victims are still being treated in hospital. Many are suffering from shrapnel wounds from the nail bomb detonated by the lone attacker.

Now, NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) are asking new donors to give blood, particularly those with O negative type. They’re asking people not to attend blood banks today unless they have a pre-arranged appointment. Instead, you should book to donate in advance.

Mike Stredder, director of blood donation at NHSBT, said: “We are responding to last night’s events in Manchester. Our thoughts are with the people affected by this tragic incident.

“We do have all the blood required for hospital patients at the present time, however, we are always keen to encourage new donors to register and existing donors to book an appointment.

“If you have an appointment to give blood in the next few days, please do your best to keep it, particularly if you are blood group O negative.”

Here’s medical centres in Manchester that you can go to donate at:

Norfolk House Donor Centre

7 Brown Street, Manchester, Lancs, M2 1DA

Manchester, Plymouth Grove Donor Centre

Nhsbt, Manchester Centre, Plymouth Grove, Manchester, M13 9LL

If you type in your location into this link, you can find your nearest centre accepting donations in the coming days.

To find out the latest opening hours and to book an appointment call 0300 123 23 23.

Photo credit – Music Reporter Steve Holden