Scotland appeals for more donors as blood stock levels face significant drop

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) is appealing for more people to donate regularly as blood supplies face a significant drop.

Debbie McNaughton, Associate Director Donor & Transport Services, SNBTS explains: “With only 2% of the population in Scotland regularly giving blood, we have a shortage of donors. This means the blood supply has been under pressure for several months.

“We work to ensure that blood, tissues and cells are available across Scotland 24 hours a day, every day of the year. However, autumn is traditionally a challenging time for the blood supply, with seasonal illnesses, the new academic term and darker evenings meaning fewer donors are coming forward. We are also currently seeing high demand for blood products from Scottish hospitals. Currently four out of the eight different blood groups are below desired levels. These groups are: O Positive, O Negative, A Positive and B Negative.

Debbie continues: “In order to meet demand for blood products in NHS Scotland, we aim to welcome 450 donors every day. However, a spike in demand for one or more blood groups, combined with fewer donors coming forward, means we have been in a declining stock position for several months. This means it is important donors come forward now, and in the coming weeks.

“In order to boost blood stocks, we have been contacting donors directly, advertising across Scotland, and reaching out to donors who have not donated so far in 2026, reminding them how important they are. Blood has a shelf-life of only 35 days, so supplies must be constantly replenished.

“It is very important new donors come forward now. For several years we have seen our donor base aging in Scotland, and this gives us cause for concern. You can start giving blood aged 17, so we wish to remind young adults in Scotland that giving blood only takes one hour of your time.

“Blood donation is one of the simplest ways people can make a real difference. We need more people to take that first step and become donors. If you’re feeling healthy and well, there’s a good chance you’re eligible to donate blood. A strong and resilient blood system depends on more people coming forward, not just when the need is heightened, but as a regular part of their routine.”

Echoing the call for donors is Stirling mum Caitlyn Stewart, whose first child Millie was born in February 2026. Millie spent five weeks in Glasgow neonatal care, and five weeks in Forth Valley neonatal care.

Caitlyn says: “Millie was born prematurely at just 28 weeks weighing only 670 grams. She had her first blood transfusion at four days old, her second followed in March with just 23mls of donated blood making a life-saving difference. Thanks to blood donors, Millie is now growing stronger every day. We will forever encourage people to give blood and be forever grateful to people who do.” 

How to help

To support Scotland’s patients and help save lives, book an appointment today:

• Using your Online Donor Account
• Emailing nss.snbtsenquiry@nhs.scot
• Or calling 0345 90 90 999 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm)