As of this Saturday, Taree Blood Donor Centre will open its doors on the first Saturday of the month from 8am until noon to give donors more flexibility with donation times.

Jemma Falkenmire from the Australian Red Cross Blood Service said the change would hopefully encourage new donors to give blood.

Miss Falkenmire said at present only one donor was booked in, and more donors were needed to ensure the continuation of Saturday openings.

Currently the centre is open Monday to Friday, and with weekends being the only time many people are available to donate, the blood service has responded to donor requests and made the decision to open on weekends.

"We hope the local community rolls up their sleeves and supports our new opening time," she said.

"As well as giving existing donors more flexibility, we hope that new donors will also come forward, roll up their sleeves and give blood.

"There is an increasing need for blood donors, not only in Taree, but nationwide. In fact, we need 27,000 donations each week to meet demand."

Taree Blood Donor Centre is located at 6 Macquarie Street in Taree.

To make an appointment or for more information call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au.