Giving Blood

If you're aged over 17 and weigh more than 7st 12lbs (50kg) then you should be able to give blood. It's so simple to find somewhere to donate and can all be done online, all you have to do is turn up, fill in a form & answer some questions, donate your blood and then have a cuppa' & some biscuits!

Plus, you can take embarrassing blood donation selfies, like me.

The blood.co.uk website is really easy to use and has all the details and answers to any questions you might have. All you need to do is create an account as a first time donor, or if you're already a donor you can log in/sign up. They then take a few details off of you, such as your address, and then you take a look for a venue which is having a blood donation session.

In terms of the actual donation I found it to be pretty easy, comfortable and not stressful. I used to be really afraid of needles (when I was little I punched a nurse who was trying to give me an inoculation), but the nurses at the blood donor session were very calm, friendly and helpful, which made me feel much more relaxed. Obviously if you are really afraid of needles I would not put yourself through this process!

That's all you need to know really, but remember that 25% of people need a blood donation at some point in their lives, yet only 4% of adults are donors. One donation of blood can help up to three people, so it really is worthwhile.