The Illegal Blood Bank

UNILAD, FreedomToDonate and ELVIS are partnering to launch the world’s first-ever blood bank for gay and bisexual men, highlighting the discriminatory UK law which states that it is illegal for all gay or bisexual men to donate blood – even if it’s perfectly safe to use – unless they are willing to abstain from sex for three months. Located in a secret London location, the Illegal Blood Bank will offer gay and bisexual men the opportunity to donate their blood in protest against the current law, and to highlight that there is a safe supply of blood currently being ignored due to the discriminatory legislation, which is much needed and could benefit the entire UK population. Working with FreedomToDonate, the pressure group seeking to make blood donation more inclusive, UNILAD is calling for a fairer blood donation system, where everyone is treated equally and assessed on their individual behaviour, not their sexual orientation. To support, the MSM community can register to become a donor on November 23rd at www.bloodwithoutbias.com. Allies of the cause, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, can raise awareness and show their support by using #BloodWithoutBias on their social channels or signing the petition here. The launch of the Illegal Blood Bank is supported by a campaign which will harness UNILAD’s global audience of over 430 million, including its 44 million Facebook followers, and will also include paid social, PR and OOH activity.