LESS than half of the people needed to give blood over the festive season have so far come forward in response to an appeal.
The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) hopes to welcome 2231 donors across the country but so far, only 927 people have booked in.
“We have blood donor centres open throughout the festive period – but there are key dates when very few people are booked in,” said Debbie McNaughton, associate director of Donor and Transport Services for SNBTS.
“For instance, on Boxing Day, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness Donor Centres are open – but only 56 out of the 213 donors needed have made an appointment. In Glasgow, only seven people have made appointments for December 26.
“Then on January 2, Glasgow, Livingston, Aberdeen and Inverness Donor Centres are open – but only 33 people out of the 218 donors needed are booked in to donate. That’s only 15% of what’s needed.”
First Minister Humza Yousaf is one of the donors who has booked an appointment over the festive season.
He said: “During the festive season, donations can drop off as people are busy seeing friends and family and spending time celebrating, but the need for blood does not take a rest. NHS Scotland is busy with cancer care, A&E and maternity wards all still running.
“I’m pleased to be able to play my part in donating blood and would encourage anyone who is able to consider booking an appointment. By donating blood, you could help to save a life.”
McNaughton added: “We do understand people are busy, and have a lot on at this time. However, we want to remind people about the need for these essential blood components because they will not take a rest over the festive period.
“Our appointment grids are open, and we are asking everyone to book their festive appointment now. We understand giving blood on Boxing Day, Hogmanay or January 2 may feel like an unusual thing to do but it is also a very important thing to do.
“We will have a festive atmosphere in the donor centre, and we’d love to welcome as many people as possible. It’s very important donors come forward throughout December and into the New Year, to ensure Scottish hospitals are well stocked.
“We’ve been busy throughout December, which is great news. But we would love people to make an extra special effort to come forward now.”
