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According to the 2025 annual report from the Établissement Français du Sang (EFS) in France, 2.5 million units of blood were supplied to hospitals thanks to donations, whether from regular or occasional donors. Despite this impressive figure, blood stocks remain under pressure.
The need for blood products is constant and wide-ranging: cancer treatments, blood disorders, surgeries, childbirth-related haemorrhages, and many other medical situations all rely on blood donations. Demand can also increase at certain times of the year, either because fewer people donate (for example during the summer holidays) or due to an increase in road traffic accidents, particularly during holiday periods.
Every donation truly helps save lives. Around one million people benefit from blood transfusions every year in France, according to the EFS.
How does it work?
Donating blood takes around one hour in total. The process begins with a member of staff confirming your identity, followed by a health questionnaire covering topics such as recent travel and medical history. You will then have a confidential discussion with a healthcare professional, who will review your answers and ensure that you are both eligible to donate and fit enough on the day.
The blood donation itself is very quick and usually takes around ten minutes. Plasma donation takes approximately 45 minutes, while platelet donation lasts around 90 minutes. After your donation, you will be offered refreshments and asked to remain on site for 15 to 20 minutes before leaving – and don’t forget to stay well hydrated for the rest of the day!
I try to take part in local blood donation campaigns whenever I can. I was introduced to blood donation at a young age, as both of my parents are donors, and I also know people who have needed blood transfusions. If you’ve been thinking about donating but haven’t taken the first step yet, rest assured that everything is done to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Personally, I have always been welcomed by caring, supportive professionals who take the time to put donors at ease.
Practical information
In France, you can visit the EFS website, while NHS handles the details in the UK. You’ll find permanent donation centres, which also collect plasma and platelets, as well as mobile donation sessions held in community halls, sports centres and dedicated donation vehicles.
What if we got involved together?
World Blood Donor Day takes place every year on June 14. Although the next edition is still a few months away, why not take this opportunity to turn this simple act of solidarity into a team initiative? Just one hour of your time can make an incredible difference!
