The Welsh Government has agreed to £900,000 of funding for new replacement vehicles for the Welsh Blood Service.
The money will be spent on two new six-bed mobile blood collection clinic trailers, one equipment vehicle, two support vehicles and four large delivery vans.
The new mobile collection trailers are expected to account for up to 24% of Welsh Blood Service donations every year.
Health Minister Lesley Griffiths AM said: “With an ageing population, we need the services of the Welsh Blood Service more than ever. This investment will enable them to provide flexible, accessible blood donation units and get out into even more of our communities to encourage more donors to come forward.
“I hope people see these units and are encouraged to give blood. One in three people in Wales will need blood in their lifetime, but only one in 30 will ever give blood. Giving blood saves lives, and hopefully this investment will enable the Welsh Blood Service to reach more potential donors.”
Dr Geoff Poole, director of the Welsh Blood Service, added: “We are delighted with the news that our ageing fleet of vehicles will be renewed with the Welsh Government funding announcement. The new vehicles and trailers will provide us with an opportunity to improve our collection activity and enhance the experience of our valued donors.
“The mobile blood units can travel into communities, workplaces and areas where traditional collection venues are not available – making it easier for people across Wales to give blood.
“The trailers are clinically self – contained designed and fitted out to improve comfort and efficiency, enabling us to deliver a ‘best in class’ blood collection service.
“This will enhance the capability of the Welsh Blood Service to continue on its path to modernise its service provision and future proof the service.”
as a doner i think anything that helps give more access for people to donate is defiantly a good thing