More giving blood as donors rush to 'do their bit' during pandemic

The Welsh Blood Service has hailed the generosity of donors who've answered the "call to arms" to give blood during the coronavirus pandemic.

The service says it's seen an increase in first-time donors compared with the same period last year, as well as a rise in those returning after a long absence.

It also says two-thirds of donors have travelled to a different venue to their normal clinic during the crisis.

With many of its usual venues shut because of social distancing rules, the Welsh Blood Service is operating five regional 'hubs' each week to allow people to donate.

Last week, the stage at Swansea's Grand Theatre was transformed into a clinic.

Laura, who hadn't attempted to donate for 15 years, said giving blood was a chance "to give something back" after her son was treated by the NHS for epilepsy.

Donating blood is classed as "essential travel", though donors are asked to book an appointment before making the journey to a hub.

Upon arrival, donors are "triaged" - asked some questions about their health - and social distancing rules are followed wherever possible.

When the time comes to donate, staff carrying out the procedure wear PPE, including aprons and masks.

Louise Williams normally works in the transplantation and immunogenetics lab at Welsh Blood Service headquarters in Llantrisant.

But with her usual duties on hold because of Covid-19, she's volunteered to help out with cleaning duties at the clinics.

With hospitals postponing non-essential surgery in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, demand for blood stocks is lower than normal.

But donors are being urged to keep coming forward, especially as lockdown measures begin to be eased.

You can find out more about donating blood in Wales on the Welsh Blood Service website.

• Watch the full report below: