Want to give blood and help save lives? Before heading to a donation centre, it’s important to check if you meet the eligibility requirements. Here’s everything you need to know about who can donate blood in the UK.
General Requirements for Blood Donation in the UK
To be eligible to give blood, you must meet the following criteria:
Age: You must be aged between 17 and 65. If you have donated before, you can continue to donate up to your 66th birthday. Regular donors over 66 may still be eligible if approved by a medical professional.
Weight: You must weigh between 50kg (7st 12lbs) and 158kg (25st).
Health: You should be in good general health with no recent infections or major illnesses.
Factors That May Affect Your Eligibility
Some conditions or circumstances may mean you need to wait before donating:
Recent Travel: If you have recently travelled to a country with a high risk of malaria or other infections, you may need to wait before donating.
Medications & Medical Conditions: Certain medications or health conditions might temporarily or permanently prevent you from giving blood. For example, if you have had most types of cancer, some heart conditions, or have received blood products after 1 January 1980, you may not be eligible.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: You cannot donate while pregnant, and you must wait at least six months after giving birth before donating.
Tattoos & Piercings: You must wait four months after getting a tattoo or piercing before donating.
Sexual Activity: All donors are now asked about recent sexual behaviors to assess individual risk. This change aims to make blood donation more inclusive without affecting safety.
Preparing for Your Blood Donation
To ensure a smooth donation experience, follow these simple steps:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after donating.
Eat Well: Have a healthy meal rich in iron before your appointment.
Bring ID: Ensure you have the necessary identification with you.
Get Plenty of Rest: A good night’s sleep will help you feel your best when donating.
By staying informed and prepared, you can help save lives through blood donation.
Join the Donor Community
At WeDonate, we’re here to support the donor community every step of the way. Whether you’re a seasoned donor or considering your first donation, know that your contributions make a life-saving difference.
Stay tuned for more tips, updates, and ways to stay connected with the donor community. Thank you for making every donation count!
