Falkirk residents have been urged to give blood as the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) works to boost supplies, with certain types in danger of running critically low.

Scotblood, Scotland's official blood bank directory, states that blood supplies should be maintained at a minimum of six days, and according to the website, several blood types currently fall far below that recommended level.

There are eight different blood types and the most recent data suggests, AB- has fallen to just a two-day supply, the lowest of any type, while O+ and B- are close behind at three days. O- is holding a four-day supply and A+ sits at five.

Despite B+ meeting the national target of six days, and AB+ and A- having a relatively healthy seven-day supply, all donors are encouraged to give blood as soon as possible. The figures were recorded on Monday, August 31.

Around half of the Scottish population, roughly 2.7 million people, have Type O blood, and SNBTS needs approximately 1950 Type O donations every week to keep hospitals across the country supplied.

Donors are encouraged to ask a friend, colleague, or clubmate to book in with them, turning a donation into a shared outing, and helping the active donor base continue to expand.

The next available blood donation drive locally will be available in Bonnybridge’s Dennyloanhead Community Centre on Sunday, September 20, and following that Grangemouth Town Hall on Wednesday, September 23, from 2pm to 4pm and 5.30pm to 7pm.

Donor sessions will also take place in the Falkirk area next month, including at the Tamfourhill Community Hub from Monday, October 12 to Wednesday, October 14, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm and 5pm to 7pm.

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service are asking both existing and new donors to give blood to help replenish stocks. (Pic: SNBTS)

placeholder image — The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service are asking both existing and new donors to give blood to help replenish stocks. (Pic: SNBTS)

For first time blood donors, the process is a relatively calm experience. Nurses aim to take 470mls of blood, with additional samples for testing. Working out at less than a pint, after a short rest, donors can relax and enjoy biscuits and a drink.

With donations lasting just 35 days, and Scotland needing an average of 450 blood donors per day, the service relies on a consistent supply of lifesaving donors to keep up with hospital demand.

Pauline Stewart, Head of Territory, SNBTS said: “Type O is always in demand. O negative can be given to patients of any blood type, making it invaluable in emergencies when there's no time to test compatibility. However, O positive is the most common group in the population, and is therefore needed by more patients than any other. This makes it absolutely critical to keep type O stock at safe levels.”

Pauline added: "Giving blood only takes about an hour from start to finish, but it can save up to three lives - that's a remarkable reward for such a small amount of your time.”

People can book their blood donation up to eight weeks in advance.

For more information on upcoming donor locations, opening times or to book your appointment visit the ScotBlood website, email - [email protected] or call 0345 90 90 999.