Important: Blood, platelets and plasma - An Easter update

Every year, holiday time poses a challenge for the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS). Today represents the start of the Easter school holidays. We know donors are busy. But to meet hospital demand, we must welcome around 7,000 blood, 280 platelet and almost 400 plasma donors over the next two weeks.

From Good Friday to Easter Monday inclusive, only 20% of available appointments are filled. All of our Donor Centres are open over Easter weekend, and we have a session in Dufftown on Easter Sunday. On Easter Monday, we are collecting blood in Aberfeldy, Kirkcaldy and Culduthel.

It is important donors continue to come forward, because the need for blood does not take a rest. You can see how critical your donation is here:

• 37% of blood is used to treat patients with cancer and blood diseases
• 27% is used in surgical procedures
• 2% is used to treat, mothers, babies and young children
• 10% is used to treat critically ill patients.

Blood has a shelf life of 35 days, so much constantly replenished.  We aim to retain 5 - 7 days supply of all 8 blood groups over the Easter period. At this time all groups are within target levels, but it is important we maintain this. We need donors with all blood groups to come forward.

Currently, 59 platelet units are being issued to Scottish hospitals per day. So if you are a platelet donor, please do ensure you have booked your platelet donation. Platelets help support Scotland’s most vulnerable patients.

We aim to welcome almost 400 plasma donors in the next two weeks. Plasma for Medicine can be used to treat over 50 diseases, including babies with haemolytic disease – an inherited condition which affects red blood cells.

Everyone at SNBTS would like to thank the amazing donors who have already booked an appointment. But we do need others to come forward at this important time. Please share, and support NHS Scotland this Easter.

The patients who receive your blood cannot thank you personally. So on their behalf, thank you.

• Make an appointment to give blood using your Online Donor Account.
• You can also get in touch online, or phone us Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, on 0345 90 90 999