Faith in Action: RAFFA’s Health Belief Campaign Unites Communities for Lifesaving Change
- Angelina Elliott
- Jun 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 6
RAFFA’s Health Belief campaign is a powerful example of how faith, health, and community can come together to save lives. By partnering with NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), RAFFA is working to increase blood donation within Black and Asian communities—groups that are critically underrepresented in the UK’s donor pool. Despite comprising around 14% of the UK population, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) individuals account for only 5% of blood donors. This disparity has serious consequences for patients with conditions like sickle cell disease, which predominantly affects people of African and Caribbean descent. These patients often require regular blood transfusions, and the best matches typically come from donors of the same ethnic background.
Recognising the influential role of churches and faith groups, RAFFA launched the Health Belief campaign to encourage blood donation within these communities. By organising blood donation drives and educational sessions, faith leaders are helping to dispel myths and misconceptions about blood donation, fostering a culture of giving and compassion.
In a recent interview, RAFFA CEO Angela Clarke BEM discussed the campaign with Ascension Trust leaders Les Isaac and Bejoy Pal, highlighting the importance of community engagement in addressing health disparities.
Education and Awareness: Key to Change
The Health Belief campaign focuses on educating community members about the blood donation process, its benefits, and its impact on those in need. By providing accurate information and addressing cultural sensitivities, RAFFA aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about donating blood.
Churches and faith groups play a vital role in this effort, offering a supportive environment for discussions and encouraging members to participate in blood donation drives. These initiatives not only help save lives but also strengthen community bonds through shared acts of kindness.
Get Involved
RAFFA invites all faith groups to join the Health Belief campaign and host blood donation sessions. By working together, we can address the urgent need for diverse blood donors and ensure that all patients receive the care they need.
To learn more or to host a session, please visit the Health Beliefs page.
Together, through faith and action, we can make a lifesaving difference.
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