The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) is urging Scots to book blood donation appointments in the coming weeks to boost supplies, with a particular focus on Type O blood donors.
Around half of Scots – about 2.7 million people – have Type O blood. SNBTS needs roughly 1,950 Type O donations every week to keep hospitals supplied, but stocks are currently lower than desired. Regular donors and first-timers are being asked to book an appointment.
Which blood types are needed most?
Angela, who works at a Glasgow Donor Centre for SNBTS, took to Instagram to encourage people to help save lives. She said: "Right now, Scotland needs O Positive, O Negative, B Positive, B Negative and A Negative. That's a lot of doners."
In addition, SNBTS issued a plea on its website on August 31 that there is a "particular need for Type O blood." The service explains that there are eight blood groups, and donated blood only lasts 35 days, meaning supplies need to be topped up all the time.
Why Type O is so important
Debbie McNaughton, SNBTS Associate Director Donor and Transport Services, said: "Type O is always in demand. O negative can be given to patients of any blood type, making it invaluable in emergencies. However, O positive is the most common group in the population, and is therefore needed by more patients than any other. This makes it essential to keep type O stock at safe levels."
SNBTS is particularly keen to hear from younger people who haven't donated before, and from donors who haven't given blood in a while. They are also encouraging people to bring a friend, colleague or clubmate and book in together.
How to book an appointment
Debbie continued: "Giving blood only takes about an hour from start to finish, but it can save up to three lives – that's a remarkable reward for such a small amount of your time. Whether you've given before or you've simply never got round to it, now is the moment we need you most."
She added: "Book in with a friend, your workmates, your whole five-a-side team – the more of you who give together, the further it goes. Book online at www.scotblood.co.uk or call us on 0345 90 90 999, Monday to Friday, and help us keep Scotland's blood stocks where they need to be."
To support Scotland's patients and help save lives, book an appointment today by visiting www.scotblood.co.uk, emailing nss.snbtsenquiry@nhs.scot, or calling 0345 90 90 999 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).
