Jamie Stone welcomes change to blood donation rules

North MP Jamie Stone has welcomed changes to rules which mean that more people could be eligible to donate blood based on their health, travel and sexual behaviour.

New guidance means people can now be assessed on their eligibility to give blood based solely on individual experiences. Those backing the changes say they make the process fairer for everyone.

“These changes will make a huge difference to the lives of people across Scotland," said Mr Stone, the Liberal Democrat MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross. "Now, more people than ever before can donate blood and save lives.

“Organisations such as Freedom to Donate, and myself, have been calling for these changes for some time now. I am extremely glad to see some relief and justice brought to this cause.

“The previous three-month deferral for LGBT+ people was discriminatory. Blood is blood. It is particularly symbolic that these changes have taken place during Pride Month – the end of this outdated policy takes us that bit closer to an equal society.”

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