NHS Blood and Transplant Uses Art and Poetry to Boost Donor Registration in Brixton

NHS Blood and Transplant Launches Creative Campaign to Boost Blood Donor Registration in Brixton

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) has teamed up with artist Rizzy Akanji Amole and Akanji Studio to bring blood typing directly into the community, leveraging art and poetry to highlight the lived experience of sickle cell and inspire individuals to take their first steps toward becoming blood donors. This innovative initiative aims to transform personal stories into actionable community support.

Addressing Critical Blood Donation Needs Through Art

Every day, thousands of blood donations are essential for emergencies, including childbirth complications, cancer care, and sickle cell transfusions. Despite this urgent need, only about 2% of people in England donate blood regularly. To combat this shortfall, NHSBT is collaborating with Rizzy to showcase his personal journey with sickle cell through original artwork, making the campaign relatable and impactful.

These events hold particular significance for Black and mixed heritage communities. Individuals of Black heritage are more likely to have the Ro blood type, which is crucial for treating sickle cell—a condition that disproportionately affects these communities and often requires regular, closely matched blood transfusions. By centering local voices and creativity, Rizzy and NHSBT seek to build confidence, dismantle barriers, and demonstrate how a simple action can save lives.

Personal Motivation and Community Empowerment

Rizzy explains the deep personal importance of this campaign. He stated, “Growing up with sickle cell, I’ve seen how blood donation can change someone’s day or their life. Through this project, I want to share with the community my lived experience of sickle cell disorder.” He emphasized using art to turn experience into action, noting that Brixton has always symbolized strength and solidarity. “I want this work to show the power we hold when we look out for one another. Discovering your blood type might feel small, but it can become a lifeline. Every new donor has the potential to save or sustain a life, and that’s a legacy we can all share.”

Event Details and How to Participate

The Brixton community is invited to visit Brixton House on February 13 and 14 to view the exhibition and undergo a blood type test. Eligible adults will be asked to complete a quick finger-prick blood type test and register as new blood donors. It is important to note that blood donation is not required on the day, but registration is necessary to participate.

The main eight blood types can be identified in approximately two minutes during the event, while the Ro subtype is confirmed after the first blood donation. Increasing registration and participation from underrepresented communities is a vital step toward improving patient outcomes and saving lives.

The call to action is straightforward: attend the NHSBT blood typing event, discover your blood type, and register as a donor. This process takes just a few minutes, but its impact could last a lifetime.