Australians are being urged to roll up their sleeves and donate some blood over the New Year period. The Australian Red Cross Blood Service requires thousands of extra donors to ensure that there isn’t a shortage of platelets product vital to recovering cancer patients.

“At the moment we are still 7500 appointments short of where we need to be to feel comfortable at this time of the year in the event of a spike in demand,” spokesman Shaun Inguanzo said in a statement on Friday.

“The need for blood never takes a break, and the greatest users of blood are cancer patients.”

Mr Inguanzo said Australian donors were generous over Christmas, but because platelets only live for five days the need to top up supplies became essential.

“Just an hour of your time could mean a lifetime to someone else this New Year period, so please roll up your sleeves and make an appointment to give blood,” he said.

The blood blitz is focused on the period between December 29 and January 4, although people are encouraged to donate anytime.

To help, call the Australian Red Cross Blood Service on 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au