Lifeblood has launched a new initiative involving artists to create a range of limited-edition artwork bandages designed to celebrate the life-giving efforts of blood and plasma donors.
The campaign coincides with the release of research, which was commissioned by Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, that reveals one third of Australians want to do more to help the community.
“Our data shows that 33 per cent of us want to do more and become more altruistic in the wake of the events of 2020, but the majority don’t know where to begin, and two-thirds aren’t in a position to donate money to charity,” said spokesperson and Lifeblood's executive director of donor services, Cath Stone.
“However, 93 per cent of the people we surveyed agreed that donating blood would be a good place to start.”
The research was conducted by Lonergan Research and involved responses from over 1,000 adult Australians.
Lifeblood said the bandages have begun rolling onto arms in donor centres across the country. They have been designed by six artists - Beci Orpin, Gemma O’Brien, Chris Nixon, Georgia Perry, Kenny Pittock and Brian Robinson.
“With a blood donation required every 24 seconds in Australia, the need for blood never stops. We’re thrilled to have six incredible Australian artists on board to help us shine a colourful spotlight on blood and plasma donation, with our very own bandage badges-of-honour,” said Ms Stone.
“We hope these limited-edition bandages will encourage that one-third of Aussies who want to give back to their communities to do just that.”
The bandages will be available at all donor centres for six weeks — replacing the standard white bandage usually used post-donation.
Donors will be urged to share a selfie on social media with the goal of sparking conversations about the ongoing need for blood donations.
Lifeblood has also partnered with rideshare company DiDi who will offer 50 per cent off fares to and from donor centres for the campaign period (19 October to 29 November).
“We look forward to seeing Aussies flex their true colours in our Lifeblood bandages, and encourage their friends to get on board and do the same,” added Ms Stone.