Marking Sickle Cell Awareness Month 2025 with a call to action

This month, the Royal Borough of Greenwich is joining communities across the country to mark Sickle Cell Awareness Month and shine a light on the fastest growing genetic blood condition in the country.  

Sickle cell can affect people of all backgrounds but is more common in African and Caribbean communities. People living with sickle cell may experience painful crises, fatigue, and an increased risk of serious health complications. Despite this, the condition is often not well understood. 

The council is working alongside partners, including NHS Blood and Transplant, to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage life-saving blood and stem cell donation.  

Last year, the Leader of the Council shared his personal story of living with sickle cell, highlighting the vital role that blood transfusions play in his life and the lives of many others. This year, the Council is continuing its commitment to support affected communities and tackle health inequalities. 

Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: "I live with sickle cell, but it does not define me. Too often, people are limited by how others see their condition. I am living proof that with the right care and vital, life-saving blood transfusions, people with sickle cell can achieve their ambitions, and give back to their communities. 

"None of this is possible without blood donors. By giving blood, you’re not just saving lives, you’re giving people like me, and so many others, the chance to live fully, without limits.

“Sickle cell is a medical condition, not an identity. Together we can break down stigma, encouraging people of all backgrounds to do their part and donate blood."

Regular blood transfusions are often essential for people with sickle cell to stay well, and donors from all ethnic backgrounds are urgently needed. To encourage more people to find out if they can donate, NHS Blood and Transplant will be holding two ‘What’s Your Blood Type?’ events at the Woolwich Centre Library, SE18 6HQ: 

• Saturday 27 September, from 10am to 2pm
• Friday 24 October, from 10am to 2pm  

This initiative allows people to find out their likely blood type through a quick finger-prick test when registering to become a new donor. Attendees will also learn why their specific blood type is important and how often they can donate.  

If you would like to donate blood or find out your blood type, you can attend one of the events or book an appointment at a local donation centre. Please check you are eligible to give blood before booking. 

In Royal Greenwich, local support is available through the Oxleas Community Adult Sickle Cell Service, which provides comprehensive care and guidance for people aged 18 and over. Patients can self-refer to the service, or be referred by their GP or another professional. Nobody has to face sickle cell alone, as local services are here to help.  

A local resident who's wife uses the Oxleas Community Adult Sickle Cell Service said:

"What an amazing service this has been for my wife. Never before has a service been provided like this, where she has had the opportunity to engage with specialists in sickle cell. They have provided her with valuable information and knowledge on how to best manage her condition. Long may it continue." 

The Council is committed to tackling health inequalities and working with communities to ensure equitable access to life-changing treatments and support.  

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Borough of Sanctuary, said: “Sickle cell touches many families in our borough, and behind every diagnosis is someone’s son, daughter, friend or neighbour.” 

“This month is about showing that we stand with them. By talking more openly about sickle cell, we can break down stigma and show that no one is defined by their condition. By giving blood, we can save lives in Royal Greenwich and beyond. I’d encourage everyone who can to come along to one of our events and see if you could be the lifeline someone needs.”  

If you would like to donate blood or find out your blood type, you can go online to check your eligibility, register and book an appointment at blood.co.uk.