Preparing to donate
Donating blood, plasma or platelets is simple but a little preparation makes it easier and more comfortable. Follow our tips to make your experience pleasant, safe and straightforward.
Get ready with our top tips
Here’s how to prepare for your donation.
Before your appointment
Check you can donate
Use our online tool to make sure you're ready to donate.
It's quick to complete and helps avoid wasted journeys on the day.
Stay hydrated
Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to your donation.
This will help your donation run smoothly, as well as helping to make up for the fluids lost during donation.
Eat well
Have a healthy meal and avoid fatty foods as this can affect the quality of your donation.
As part of your regular, healthy diet, try and choose foods that are good sources of iron to help maintain your iron and haemoglobin levels.
Get a good night’s sleep
Aim for a full night’s rest before donating so you arrive feeling refreshed.
Being well-rested helps you stay calm and lowers the chance of feeling faint.
On the day
Plan your visit
Try to arrive on time for your appointment so we can see you as quickly as possible.
If you plan to bring children with you, please know we have some rules about children at our donation venues.
Drink plenty of fluids
Have about 500ml of water in the hour before your appointment.
Being well-hydrated helps your circulation and supports a smooth donation.
Wear comfortable clothing
Choose clothing with loose sleeves that can be rolled up easily.
This makes it simpler for our team to reach your arm for donation.
Stick to light exercise
Avoid doing any vigorous exercise or heavy lifting before and after your appointment.
Light exercise such as walking is fine, but make sure that you are fully recovered before donating.
After you've donated
Take it easy
Have a snack and drink in our refreshment area once you’ve donated.
Keep drinking water through the day and avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours.
Book again
Most donors can give blood every 12 to 16 weeks, and plasma or platelets up to every 2 weeks.
Book your next appointment online before you leave to make it easy to donate again.