SNP MSP Derek Mackay is encouraging his Renfrewshire constituents to help save a life by donating blood this week.

give-blood-600x300-798x422The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service aim to stock six days’ worth of each blood type at all times.

Blood has a very short shelf life and can’t be stockpiled, so donors are required every day to help maintain stocks of the eight blood types.

The Service is currently reporting low stocks in the O and A blood groups.

The mobile blood van will be at the Kirklandneuk Community Centre, Ness Road, Renfrew on Thursday (20thOctober) at 2.30pm until 3.45pm, and 5.15pm until 7.30pm. It will also be in Bishopton, at the Community Centre car park, on Friday 11th November between 4pm and 7.30pm.

To enquire about donor centre opening hours or the schedule for the mobile blood donation van, please visit www.scotblood.co.uk or call 0345 30 17 270.

Renfrewshire North & West Mr Mackay MSP said:

“The generosity of Renfrewshire’s blood donors over the years has helped ensure that blood stocks have remained at a healthy level and those that require blood – get it.

“We can all help the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service by knowing what blood type we are and by keeping an eye on what particular blood groups are experiencing a shortage of supply.

“As someone who has given blood in the past, I can reassure any first time donors that the staff are friendly and do a great job in making the process quick and comfortable.

“I’d therefore like to urge both regular donors, and any first time donors, to give blood. That few minutes out of your day could save someone’s life.”