Sixth form pupils roll up their sleeves for the Welsh Blood Service

Sixth form pupils at Porthcawl and Bryntirion comprehensive schools are being praised by the Welsh Blood Service after leading the way in Wales with around 100 pupils rolling their sleeves up to donate blood within the last month.

They are two of the three schools from across Wales that have held blood donation sessions for pupils and staff this year, making an outstanding effort towards blood donation.

Porthcawl Comprehensive School held their very first blood donation session in February, where all 64 available slots were snatched up by pupils and staff who were eager to do their part to help save lives.

Sixth form pupils at Bryntirion Comprehensive School, many of whom are first time donors, were equally keen to donate blood at a specially organised session held earlier this week - the school’s third blood donation clinic since 2016.

I am so proud of all of our students and staff who have rolled up their sleeves and donated blood. Each donation can save up to three lives so our efforts mean that as a school we could potentially save hundreds of lives in Wales.

Nicholas Brain, Head Teacher of Bryntirion Comprehensive School

Year 12 student at Bryntirion Comprehensive School, Kieran Cutajar, said: “I was really anxious about donating blood for the first time but it’s turned out to be a surprisingly positive experience. The Welsh Blood Service staff were really supportive and helped put my mind at ease.

“The experience helped me understand how important blood donation is and how easy it can be to help save lives. I’ll certainly be donating again and would encourage everybody else to do so too.”

Currently, the Welsh Blood Service needs over 100,000 units of blood per year to supply hospitals across Wales, meaning they need around 450 units per day.

Jonathan Ellis, the Welsh Blood Service’s Head of Donor Engagement added: “We would like to thank the pupils and the members of staff who have selflessly contributed towards the 100,000 units needed in Wales this year. They have shown fantastic commitment and great community spirit.

“We hope that the pupil’s actions will encourage more people living in the county borough to consider donating in the future. The blood collected is not just used for accidents and emergencies; it is also used for cancer and leukaemia patients who need regular transfusions, so it’s crucial we maintain a steady supply to support patients in need across the country.”

The Welsh Blood Service will be in the Heronston Hotel, Bridgend, on Monday 19 March and Monday 9 April from 10am - 12.30pm and 2pm - 4.20pm for members of the public to donate blood.

To start your lifesaving journey today please visit the Welsh blood service website or call 0800 252 266.