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How you can help the victims of the Manchester terror attack

Anthony Pearce
At least 22 have died in a suspected terrorist attack (Rex)
At least 22 have died in a suspected terrorist attack (Rex)

There are several ways you can help victims of the terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena, which has left at least 22 people dead and 59 injured.

The NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) has urged new and existing donors to book appointment to give blood over the coming days.

Mike Stredder, director of blood donation at NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), said: “We are responding to last night’s events in Manchester. Our thoughts are with the people affected by this tragic incident.

“We do have all the blood required for hospital patients at the present time; however, we are always keen to encourage new donors to register and existing donors to book an appointment which can be done at Blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23 to find your nearest session.”

Follow all the latest updates here

MORE: Manchester Arena explosion – what we know so far
MORE: Manchester attack – shocking video shows moment blast hit arena

Two medical centres — Norfolk House Donor Centre (7 Brown Street M2 1DA) and Plymouth Grove Donor Centre (Manchester Centre, Plymouth Grove M13 9LL) — have sessions today.

Mancunians from taxi drivers to home owners have stepped in to help victims of the Manchester Arena blast – with the Holiday Inn sheltering dozens of lost children.

Police say the incident is being treated as a terrorist attack and that a lone male suicide bomber detonated an “improvised explosive device” in the foyer of the venue.

British Transport police say the explosion occurred at about 10:30pm and the attacker died on the scene. Chief constable Ian Hopkins has confirmed children are “among the deceased”.

“The most horrific incident we have ever faced in Manchester,” he added. The first victim has been named as Georgina Bethany Callander, 16.

Social media users are using the hashtag #ManchesterMissing to help trace missing concert-goers in the wake of the attack.

Manchester Police have set up emergency numbers – 0161 856 9400 or 0161 856 9900 – for those who are concerned about relatives or loved ones who may have been in the area.

Mancunians have been offering rooms for those affected by the attack
Mancunians have been offering rooms for those affected by the attack

Facebook has activated its Safety Check function, which allows users who were in the area to tell family that they are safe.

Police are appealing in particular for anyone with footage or photos from the concert that may help to upload them to the UK Police Image Appeal website here.

If you were at or around Manchester Arena last night and have any information that may help Greater Manchester Police in their investigation call the anti-terrorist hotline 0800 789321 or 999.

The Manchester Evening News has set up a JustGiving page to raise £5,000 to support families of those killed and injured in the Manchester Arena attack. At the time of writing, £12,000 has been donated.

Read more about the Manchester terror attack:

Video shows moment concert-goers flee in terror

Eyewitness accounts: ‘There was carnage’

First victim names as Georgina Callander

Mum breaks down during desperate appeal to find daughter

People in Manchester open their homes to help those affected

Sick Isis supporters celebrate bombing