ONLY 4% OF PEOPLE ACTUALLY DONATE
In Scotland, only 4% of those who are eligible to donate blood actually do so. There are many reasons why people cannot donate, which makes it even more important to if and when you can.
Every time you give blood, you could save or improve the lives of up to three people!
As all blood donations are separated into three components - red blood cells, plasma and platelets - one blood donation can save or improves the lives of up to three people. This means that the exact products can be given to those who need them, while ensuring that none of your blood donation goes to waste.
400 NEW DONORS NEEDED EVERY DAY
Nearly 400 new donors are needed every day to meet the demand of blood in the UK. Adults and children who suffer from anaemia, cancer and blood disorders are dependent on regular blood donations - most cannot survive without them.
Every minute, four units of blood are issued to UK hospitals to help patients.
Blood donations are also needed for people who require major and emergency surgeries, including blood loss after child birth. 5,000 people need to give blood every single day to meet this demand.
YOU CAN DONATE ONCE YOU ARE 17
Over half of regular blood donors are over the age of 45 – we need more young and diverse donors to donate! As soon as you turn 17, you are eligible to donate blood.
Women aged 17-34 are almost twice as likely to donate than men the same age.
Men tend to have more iron and a higher platelet count than women, meaning they can donate more regularly. Furthermore, only men’s blood can be used for blood transfusions in newborn babies, highlighting why we need more men to regularly donate!
Myth Buster
MYTH: “Donating blood is painful, and I’m scared of needles”
In our experience, donating blood is not painful; 86% of donors have admitted that donating was much easier than they expected.
MYTH: "Donating blood will disrupt my exercise/training programme”
It is recommended to take it easy for 24 hours after donating. This doesn’t mean you can’t do any exercise at all, just to keep it light! However, you can be back to your normal routine the next day.
MYTH: "I have tattoos and piercings so I can’t donate”
Just wait a second! You are able to donate blood four months after you have had a piercing or tattoo.
FAQs
Where can I donate blood?
In Scotland, there are donor centres in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Livingston, Aberdeen, Inverness and Dundee. Scotblood also run local community sessions across the country.
How often can I give blood?
In the UK, you can donate blood every 12 weeks. For women in England, you must wait at least 16 weeks between blood donations.
What happens to the blood I donate?
After your blood has been tested for infections, it is separated into three components: red blood cells, platelets and plasma. This means that one blood donation can save or improve up to three people’s lives.
How long does it take to donate blood?
Signing in, checking your eligibilty, donating and enjoying your biscuit and drink takes roughly an hour. However, the actual donation only takes around 5-15 minutes.
What will my blood be tested for? Will I find out my results?
All donations are tested for infection with Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis E, HIV, HTLV, and Syphilis. They may also test for Malaria or West Nile Virus. You will only be informed of your results if you test positive for any of these infections.
How do I book an appointment?
Click the button below!