Stevenson Urges Locals to Give Blood Over Summer

Stewart Stevenson, SNP MSP for Banffshire & Buchan Coast, is encouraging constituents to help save a life this summer by donating blood before they go on holiday.

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service must maintain up to a week’s supply for all eight blood groups in Scotland and supplies often see a drop during the summer months, particularly as people travel overseas.

Mr Stevenson said:

“The people of the North East have always been generous blood donors. This generosity has ensured that blood stocks remain at a healthy level and that our health service is getting the support that it needs.

“We can all help the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service by knowing what blood type we are and by keeping an eye on what particular blood groups are experiencing a shortage of supply. All blood groups are encouraged to donate, but donors are currently needed for the blood groups B negative and O positive in particular.

“I can assure any first time donors that staff always do a great job of making the process quick and comfortable.

“I’d therefore like to urge both regular and first time donors to give blood before they go away on holiday this summer - your generosity could save someone’s life.”

Julie Bonner of the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service added:

“SNBTS would like to encourage as many people as possible to consider coming along to give blood. During the summer months, donations can drop by up to 20 per cent as regular donors may be on holiday and enjoying the hot weather. So, if you have never given blood before, or haven’t given blood for a while, there has never been a better time to do so.”