Transfusion Science
Early Insights into the Blood Group Genotyping Programme at NHSBT Filton
Transfusion Science
Early Insights into the Blood Group Genotyping Programme at NHSBT Filton
9am – 9.30am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
The Blood group genotyping programme at NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) Filton is a pivotal initiative designed to improve transfusion safety and transplant outcomes, particularly for patients with sickle cell disease, thalassaemia, and rare inherited anaemias who receive regular transfusions. These patient groups often face significant challenges in finding compatible blood and are at increased risk of alloimmunisation and transfusion reactions. This project aims to enhance their quality of life by facilitating more precise donor-recipient matching, reducing immunological complications, and supporting personalised transfusion strategies.
With high-resolution genotyping of both patient and donor samples, the project leverages advanced molecular techniques and bioinformatics tools to deliver accurate extended antigen profiling. HEA (Human Erythrocyte Antigen) genotyping is used to improve red cell matching and minimise antibody development in patients without antibodies and to better match blood for patients with antibodies.
To achieve these objectives, the programme employs standardized DNA extraction methods to ensure high-quality samples. The ThermoFisher AxiomTM Total Blood Typing Solution facilitates high-throughput genotyping, enabling efficient processing of large sample volumes from both patients and potential donors. An integrated analysis package supports data quality and generation of predicted phenotypes of 52 red cell antigens.
Initial findings have identified areas for optimization, particularly in sample processing and data quality control. Over the next year we plan to genotype 10,000 patients and 20,000 donors using this technology to enable better matching of blood.
In summary, the NHSBT Genotyping Project at Filton represents a significant advancement in precision transfusion and transplant medicine. By focusing on our frequently transfused patient population, who are also from diverse backgrounds, this programme is helping to lay the groundwork for more equitable and effective patient care.
Speakers
Doyinsola Olajide
Healthcare Scientist, NHS Blood and Transplant, Molecular Diagnostics Filton
Cellular therapies
Transfusion Science
Cellular therapies
9.30am – 10am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
Overview of the Cambridge Cellular Therapies Laboratory, including who they are and what they do to support patients requiring cellular therapies.
Speakers

Sarah Albon
Cellular Therapy Centre Director, Cambridge Cellular Therapies Laboratory, Cambridge University Hospitals Foundation Trust
Life after leukaemia – how my patient experience shaped what I do
Transfusion Science
Life after leukaemia – how my patient experience shaped what I do
10.30am – 11am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
This presentation will explore my experience and how it led me to where I am now personally and professionally.
As an acute leukaemia survivor I have spent the past nine years, advocating for patients, and sharing my experience with healthcare professionals, scientists and stakeholders highlighting the vital part they play in the pathway of someone like me.
I needed numerous transfusions and platelets to survive and know that Biomedical Scientists played an important role in the safe provision of the blood components as well as with the other vital tests and interventions during my treatment.
This is my story and how I went from trying coming to terms with a life changing diagnosis to becoming a patient advocate and PPI Lead for Transfusion 2024.
While often working behind the scenes, Biomedical Scientists play a critical role in the patient care pathway, despite rarely engaging directly with the individuals whose samples they analyse. Each sample represents a person with a life, a family, and loved ones — in my case, the parent of an eight-year-old child whose future could have been profoundly altered by a different clinical outcome. The speed, precision, and dedication of Biomedical Scientists were central to the life-saving interventions I received. Every spike in temperature, assessment of treatment response for leukaemia, and diagnosis of complications such as neutropenic colitis depended on timely and accurate laboratory input. Also moments of real quality of life significance such as being able to return home for a brief respite — were contingent upon critical lab markers like neutrophil recovery. This underscores the indispensable, though often invisible, contribution of Biomedical Scientists to patient outcomes.
Learning outcomes
Delegates will:
- Gain knowledge of a patients perspective of Transfusion as a treatment
- Understand how the speaker became an advocate for patients and the public following her experiences
- Learn about the speakers collaborative work
Speakers

Anna Mamwell
Patient and Public Involvement Lead, NHS Blood and Transplant, Barnsley Centre
Give Blood, Spread Love: Community Engagement and the Power of Black Blood Donation in Sickle Cell Care
Transfusion Science
Give Blood, Spread Love: Community Engagement and the Power of Black Blood Donation in Sickle Cell Care
11am – 11.30am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will:
- Understand the importance of ethnically matched blood for patients with sickle cell
- Gain insight into the impact of community engagement initiatives
- Learn how culturally sensitive outreach contributes to safer transfusion practices
Speakers
Sickle cell and better ethnically matched blood
Transfusion Science
Sickle cell and better ethnically matched blood
11.30am – 12pm BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will understand:
- What sickle cell is and is not
- Working whilst dealing with sickle cell disease
- Why the blood matters
Speakers

LIMS change in blood transfusion
Transfusion Science
LIMS change in blood transfusion
9am – 9.30am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
This presentation will cover:
- Overview of Change management process in blood transfusion LIMS (Completion) of change control documentation) on time
- Importance of having effective and robust LIMS in blood transfusion laboratories
- Importance of writing a good business case, tendering process and contract award
- The Role of Trust and Pathology IT in the process (Collaboration and team effort)
- Writing of test scripts and end to end testing including active participation of colleagues
- Low level design, testing, staff training and competency assessment
- Importance of carrying out risk assessment and procedures in place for downtime
Speakers
Chigozie Onuba BSc(Hons), MSc, CSci, MIBMS, IOSH
Senior Specialist Biomedical Scientist, Barts Health NHS Trust
Operation “Complex Mess” in a transfusion laboratory
Transfusion Science
Operation “Complex Mess” in a transfusion laboratory
9.30am – 10am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
Learning outcomes
Speakers
'All-Wales introduction of cffDNA testing – trials and tribulations
Transfusion Science
'All-Wales introduction of cffDNA testing – trials and tribulations
10.30am – 11am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Speakers

Pre-compatibility guidelines
Transfusion Science
Pre-compatibility guidelines
11am – 11.30am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Speakers

Blood grouping and antibody screening in pregnancy: Guideline update
Transfusion Science
Blood grouping and antibody screening in pregnancy: Guideline update
11.30am – 12pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
Overview of the updates to the British Society for Haematology guideline on blood grouping and antibody screening in pregnancy.
Speakers

Case Studies Workshop
Transfusion Science
Case Studies Workshop
12.45pm – 1.45pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 1 hour
Transfusion Science
Speakers


Incompatible beginnings: An HDFN case study
Transfusion Science
Incompatible beginnings: An HDFN case study
2pm – 2.30pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Through the discussion of a case study delegates will:
- Understand the pathophysiology of HDFN
- Be able to interpret diagnostic investigations
- Be aware of treatment strategies and preventative measures
Speakers

Cassandra Hemmings
Transfusion Service Manager, Betsi Cadwaladwr University Health Board
Fetal maternal haemorrhage measurement – what, when, how
Transfusion Science
Fetal maternal haemorrhage measurement – what, when, how
2.30pm – 3pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will learn:
- What is fetal maternal haemorrhage measurement
- When is it used and what clinical outcomes can result.
- What are the different methodologies their pros and cons.
- How do you do measure of Uncertainty for this testing.
- What is new on the horizon.
Speakers

Anti-G
Transfusion Science
Anti-G
3pm – 3.30pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will:
- Understand what Anti-G is
- Have an awareness of when extended Anti-G investigation is required
- Understand reporting and follow-up requirements in cases involving Anti-G
Speakers

A trauma case in the QMC record books
Transfusion Science
A trauma case in the QMC record books
4pm – 4.30pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will understand:
- The importance staffing/back up
- Stock control – Don’t lose sight of the simple things
- Communication – dedicated MH line for clear communication throughout
- Escalation – Haematology Consultant involvement can be a lifeline and sound board
Speakers

To phenotype or to genotype – that is the question!
Transfusion Science
To phenotype or to genotype – that is the question!
4.30pm – 5pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
Learning outcomes
Speakers
Outcomes for hospitals from the Infected Blood Inquiry Recommendation No 7
Transfusion Science
Outcomes for hospitals from the Infected Blood Inquiry Recommendation No 7
9am – 9.30am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will understand:
- What was the Infected Blood Inquiry
- What were the recommendations
- What specific recommendations most affect hospital blood banks
- What outcomes are resulting from recommendation no. 7
Speakers
Post Infected Blood Inquiry: What next for laboratories?
Transfusion Science
Post Infected Blood Inquiry: What next for laboratories?
9.30am – 10am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
Learning outcomes
Speakers

Kerry Dowling
Transfusion Laboratory Manager and Chair of UKTLC , University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
Patient blood management – anaemia management in Wales
Transfusion Science
Patient blood management – anaemia management in Wales
10.30am – 11am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Speakers
Monoclonal antibody therapies
Transfusion Science
Monoclonal antibody therapies
11am – 11.30am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Abstract
Delegates will understand:
- The role of CD38 monoclonal antibodies in multiple myeloma, including:
- Mechanism of action
- Current therapy indications
- The evidence supporting current treatment indications (including CASSIOPEIA, GRIFFIN, PERSEUS for transplant-eligible and MAIA for transplant ineligible patients)
- Potential future uses of CD38 monoclonal antibodies, including:
- Treatment for high-risk smouldering myeloma patients (including the MODIFY study using subcutaneous isatuximab)
- Host immunity manipulation to improve immune fitness and response to BCMA CAR-T Cell or bispecific antibody therapy.
- Laboratory challenges caused by CD38 monoclonal antibodies both within and outside transfusion medicine, with possible mitigation strategies
Speakers
Dr Marquita Camilleri
Haematology Consultant, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
RCI Assist: a referral support tool
Transfusion Science
RCI Assist: a referral support tool
11.30am – 12pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will understand:
- The background to Transfusion 2024 pathology projects
- How to use the RCI assist referral support tool
- How to improve staff capability and confidence in the hospital transfusion laboratory
Speakers

Meet the Panel - HSD/Portfolio queries
Transfusion Science
Meet the Panel - HSD/Portfolio queries
12.45pm – 2pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 1 hour 15 mins
Transfusion Science
Speakers


Shaping the future: How the Transfusion Practitioner Framework will support Biomedical Scientists working in the Transfusion Practitioner role
Transfusion Science
Shaping the future: How the Transfusion Practitioner Framework will support Biomedical Scientists working in the Transfusion Practitioner role
2pm – 2.30pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will understand:
- The purpose of the transfusion practitioner professional development framework
- How the framework will support biomedical scientists working in the Transfusion Practitioner role
- How the framework will support the patient, practitioners, and the wider transfusion team
Speakers

Aimee Burtenshaw
Transfusion Practitioner, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust

A day in the life of a Consultant Clinical Scientist: A joint role between Bart’s Health and NHSBT
Transfusion Science
A day in the life of a Consultant Clinical Scientist: A joint role between Bart’s Health and NHSBT
2.30pm – 3pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will learn:
- The purpose of the transfusion practitioner professional development framework
- How the framework will support biomedical scientists working in the Transfusion Practitioner role
- How the framework will support the patient, practitioners, and the wider transfusion team
Speakers

Dr Josephine McCullagh
Consultant Clinical Scientist, NHS Blood and Transplant and Barts Health NHS Trust

Digital portfolio – How’s it going? Training officer and portfolio student perspectives
Transfusion Science
Digital portfolio – How’s it going? Training officer and portfolio student perspectives
3pm – 3.30pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins
Transfusion Science
Learning outcomes
Delegates will learn:
- How is digitalisation improving Laboratory Training
- The experience of completing the digital specialist portfolio in Haematology and Hospital Transfusion Practice from the candidates perspective
- The experience of completing the digital specialist portfolio in Haematology and Hospital Transfusion Practice from the training coordinators perspective
- The main differences between the digital specialist portfolio and the previous paper-based format
- How increased digitalisation of training portfolios can be further improved in the future
Speakers

Cerian Thomas
Specialist Biomedical Scientist, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

Ashleigh Davies
Blood Transfusion Support Manager, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
Opening and Closing Plenary programmes