Blood donations in Jersey have been steadily falling – but Islanders have been reassured there is no cause for concern.

Figures show donations have dropped by more than 8% since 2023, but advances in medicine mean less donated blood is now needed to treat patients.

So, what is behind the decline – and does Jersey still need new donors?

What do the stats show?

Figures released under the Freedom of Information Law show that the number of blood donations has steadily decreased since 2023.

There were 1,808 donations in 2023, falling to 1,775 in 2024 and 1,655 in 2025.

In the first half of 2026, there were 826 donations, putting the Island on track for around 1,652 across the whole year.

If that trend continues, it would represent an 8.6% fall compared with 2023.

Why isn’t this worrying?

Despite the decline, Health and Care Jersey says there are no concerns about the Island’s blood supplies.

Claire Thompson, chief operating officer for acute services, said: “We do not have any issues with blood stocks on the Island.”

Because Jersey has its own blood service, it is able to monitor stocks and demand and collect donations “to meet Jersey’s specific needs”.

Advances in medicine and improvements in the way patients are treated have also reduced the amount of blood required.

Ms Thompson explained: “Although there has been a decline in blood donors in recent years this has not resulted in a shortage in blood and we have enough supplies.

“This is in part due to the fact that patient blood management – a set of medical practices designed to improve the care of patients who might need a blood transfusion – has improved over time, which means that the amount of blood we use on Island has fallen.

“Medical advances also means that there is a move towards single unit transfusions, so patients who require a transfusion require less blood than previously.”

Does Jersey still need new donors?

Yes. Although stocks are sufficient, the blood service still needs new donors to replace those who retire or are no longer able to give blood.

Ms Thompson said the service was “very grateful” to existing donors.

“It’s a simple act that can save someone’s life. We always welcome new donors to replace our donors who retire or who can no longer donate,” she said.

How can I become a blood donor?

Anyone who wants to donate can register online by completing a form and scheduling an appointment at the Hospital.

Donors attend the Hospital to give blood, with free parking available before their appointment and drinks and biscuits provided afterwards.