Recommendation IBI-7c: Transfusion Laboratory Staffing
From Infected Blood Inquiry Final Report, published 20 May 2024.
Recommendation
Transfusion laboratories:
Transfusion laboratories should be staffed (and resourced) adequately to meet the requirements of their functions.
In brief (written by this site)
In March 2026, Dr Lorna McLintock of the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service reported to the Scottish Government that a Strategic Needs Assessment for hospital blood banking had been completed and submitted to it for consideration (Dr Lorna McLintock, Mar 2026). Previously, the UK Government stated in May 2025 that work was ongoing to review staffing and build an evidence base, but noted that funding would be required to undertake full workforce modelling and develop minimum staffing level standards (Cabinet Office response, May 2025).
AI-generated summary of the record on this page, checked by a second model and automatic checks, 26 Sep 2026. The record below is the sources' own words.
About this summary
This recommendation applies across many organisations. The record reflects central policy activity; adoption in individual organisations may vary.
Government response
Work is ongoing to determine the current status of transfusion staffing, reviewing best practice from other areas including nursing, and developing an evidence base to inform minimum staffing level standards. The data for staffing is complex and will require careful cross-checking and analysis to determine the best way forward. Funding will be required to undertake full workforce modelling and develop minimum staffing level standards.
Delivery
Scottish Government says in progress (24 March 2026)
In relation to recommendation 7c - that transfusion laboratories should be staffed (and resourced) adequately to meet the requirements of their functions - Lorna reported that a Strategic Needs Assessment for hospital blood banking had been completed and submitted to SG for consideration as agreed at the previous OAG.
From: Infected Blood Inquiry Report Oversight and Assurance Group minutes: March 2026, Dr Lorna McLintock
Site note: Scottish Government record (minutes of its Infected Blood Oversight and Assurance Group). It covers Scotland only and is not the UK position.
Site note: The minutes are the Scottish Government's record, in reported speech, of what was said at the meeting of 24 March 2026; this entry records Lorna McLintock of the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS). The row is dated to the meeting; the minutes were published on 29 May 2026.
Responsible bodies
Themes and tags
Who has spoken
- UK Government
Response - Scottish Government
Delivery statement