Request a free swab kit

DKMS colleague Mia

Every 20 minutes, someone in the UK is diagnosed with blood cancer

You could be someone's lifeline
Four out of 10 UK patients looking for an unrelated donor are unable to find a match
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Graphic showing peripheral blood stem cell collection process
Only 30% of patients are able to find a compatible donor in their family
Anyone aged between 17 and 55 years old and in general good health can join the register
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Register as a potential blood stem cell donor

How you can help

1. Order a swab kit online
Answer a few health questions to make sure you are safe to donate. If it's 'yes' then you can request your swab kit online.
2. Swab your cheeks
Follow the instructions on the swab pack and return your swabs to our Freepost address. We analyse your swabs in our laboratory.
3. Join the register
You are added to the register as a potential donor for patients worldwide and we'll send out your donor card via email.
You are a potential match
If you are a potential match for a patient, our team will be in touch as soon as possible.
Health check
We take a blood sample to confirm that you are the best possible match for the patient.
Peripheral blood stem cell donation
In 90% of donations, stem cells are collected directly from the bloodstream in an outpatient clinic without surgery.
Bone marrow donation
In 10% of donations, the stem cells are collected from your pelvic bone under general anaesthetic.
The transplant takes place
The collected blood stem cells are transplanted to the patient in a procedure similar to a blood transfusion.
A second chance at life
Your job is done and your incredible donation will help to give someone a second chance at life.
Help us to register even more lifesavers
Everyone who needs a blood stem cell donor should be able to find their match.