BLOOD donors in East Lancashire will no longer find themselves lying down when giving blood.

The region’s donors have been chosen to try out a new chair designed to improve their donation experience.

The blue seat has upright and reclining positions, which make it easier for donors to get comfortable and relax into position.

They will replace the existing donor beds, which have been in use for more than 10 years.

Susan Mehenny is senior nurse for NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), which has been shortlisted in the annual Health Service Journal awards for its work in developing and designing the new chairs.

She said: “Donor comfort and satisfaction are very important to us. It is our dedicated donors giving blood regularly who help to maintain vital blood supplies for patients in need. We couldn’t provide our service without them.

“The new chairs were specifically designed to improve donors’ experience and create a sleeker and more modern environment in which to give blood.

“We hope the chairs will prove a hit with the donors in East Lancashire and we welcome their feedback.”

Initial trials involving 180 blood donors showed unanimous support for the new design, as users said they felt more comfortable and were more likely to return to donate again.

Donor carer staff also found them easier to set up and move around. The chairs have a built-in side table and the design is aimed at reducing work injuries from bending and lifting.

Lancashire was chosen to trial the prototype chairs as it has a high number of blood donation sessions.

During the trial the chairs will only be used in ‘mobile’ sessions, such as those taking place in village halls.

NHSBT will review the findings and aims to introduce the new chairs across England over the next 18 months.

Donors can try out the chair at Jans Conference Centre in Blackburn from 3pm today.

To book a donation appointment call 0300 1232323.