People in Ullapool are being encouraged to give blood, with stocks currently below the levels needed by Scotland’s hospitals.
The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service says it particularly needs donations from people with O and B blood types. Blood can only be stored for up to 35 days, so regular donations are essential to maintain supplies. A special donation session has been arranged at Lochbroom Leisure Centre on Quay Street on Wednesday September 30th, with appointments now available.
Both existing donors and people giving blood for the first time are being encouraged to take part.
Concern has been raised over the future of a Highland charity which has spent around 30 years helping communities provide affordable housing.
Communities Housing Trust, based in Inverness, says financial pressures have forced it to start winding down its operations. The organisation says rising building and transport costs, along with the end of a three-year funding agreement, have contributed to the situation. It warns that closure could mean losing valuable experience in delivering housing projects in rural and island areas.
The Scottish Government says it’s looking at possible future support.
A public consultation has opened on plans to protect Highland’s internationally recognised dark skies.
The proposed guidance aims to balance the need for safe outdoor lighting with the protection of wildlife, wellbeing and the region’s night-time environment. It could also support communities seeking Dark Sky status, and help strengthen tourism linked to stargazing and the outdoors. Residents, businesses and developers are being invited to comment on the draft, which could influence future planning decisions.
The consultation can be found online at highland.gov.uk/darkskies.
