Why do we need more plasma donors?

Currently in Scotland, there is a shortage of whole blood donors, with only 2% of the population donating. Not every donation can help every patient – it depends upon the donor and patients blood group being compatible. This means we must carefully balance the blood supply and number of blood donors available against hospital demand.

Therefore, SNBTS continually balances the need for blood, plasma and platelets with the number of donors available. This changes regularly, depending on what patients need at any given time.

As of January 2026, this is what we’d love to ask you to donate according to your blood group:

Your donation is your gift to give, and we're grateful for your commitment. Our team will support you with your decision, and your donation will make a real difference for patients in Scotland.

Preferred donation types change over time. We very much hope that as more people in Scotland become whole blood donors, everyone will have greater choice and flexibility in deciding if they'd like to switch to giving platelets or plasma.

• The blood groups we recruit at any given time do change, as it is always based on current patient needs. So if it's something you'd consider in the future, do let us know – even if you’re not an AB female.
• You can get in touch online, by calling us on 0345 90 90 999; or by simply speaking to us next time you're in giving blood.