Dobbins urges Derry public to avail of 'vital services'

The Derry public are being urged to avail of Action Cancer’s “Big Bus” services and the Blood Transfusion Service, both of which will be in Derry this week.

The Blood Transfusion Service will be at St Brigid’s College in Carnhill on Thursday while the “Big Bus” will be in the car park of Northside shopping centre on Friday

SDLP Cllr Angela Dobbins is urging members of the public to attend both services.

She said the Blood Transfusion Service provided a “vital service” in the supply of safe and effective blood and blood products to hospitals and clinics here and was responsible for the collection, testing and distribution of over 64,000 blood donation each year.

She added: “This vital service is dependant on existing blood donors to ensure that blood supplies are not depleting and new donors would be gratefully welcomed.”

She said the “Big Bus” had become a “well-known and valuable” health resource for men and women throughout the city, “delivering life-saving services right to the doorstep.”

She added: “As well as breast screening for women plus health promotion and MOT health checks for men and women, it provides a full body composition analysis and offers health awareness and weight loss guidance.

“Staff provide advice and information on complementary therapies and support services such as counselling and support groups for cancer patients, carers and families affected by cancer.

“This mobile clinic saves lives and I would encourage those who may be worried about their health to avail of this service.

“I would also encourage people across the city to donate to Action Cancer stores.

“Proceeds from these stores help provide the services on the ‘Big Bus’.”