not an AIBU but I need a quick answer about giving blood

[turnipfarmers]

I've recently signed up as a blood donor (I used to donate years ago pre-children) and have had an email saying my group is in short supply and they have a session tomorrow but with only 2 appointments left.

Are you allowed to take under 18s with you? (I need to take my teenager as I have to take him out straight afterwards)

thanks.

Whenever I’ve donated there has been a waiting room where anyone could sit. Never seen anyone with a companion beside the bed but can’t imagine it would be a problem. I wouldn’t think twice about taking him, should be fine.

Yes it's fine

Yes.

You can give blood if 17 and over (and meet other criteria).

Good for you, by the way.

I've taken preschool age children with me, it's not ideal but fine.

Teenager would be no problem, they could just wait in chairs until your finished.

you're

Yes as long as they can be trusted to behave. Small children are a bad idea as you can't get up or even lean over to wrangle them and there is no one to watch them. A teenager is fine though, there is a waiting area or he can sit by you.

I rarely had a choice when mine were smaller, I always take them, they sit in the waiting area and I hope that in future they will see it as part of life and a good thing to do.

Yes, i’ve taken my dc at various ages.

When I donated in December there was a woman there with her pre school aged child. The staff were very friendly and welcoming to him.

Should be okay.

Thanks all, I've booked it.

Just by going to the appointment you could save a life 👍

Yes it’s fine. Plus it’s a nice way to get them interested. It worked with me...my mum used to take me from the age of 10 and I used to watch over the nurses shoulder when the needle went in! 🙈

Definitely - the Facebook page often has photos of kids accompanying parents to give blood!