Giving Blood for the first time on 12 March - Any tips or advice please?

[Sparkler]

After years of considering it I've finally made the move and booked myself an appointment to Give Blood on 12 March.
Am feeling nervous but I know it's something that I can do that will make a huge difference to someone else's life.
Anyone have any tips or advice on what to expect? I have watched the video on the website so have an idea of what's coming.

Well done for plucking up the courage. It's a great thing to do and you'll feel really chuffed with yourself afterwards. No advice really except just relax as much as you can and take your time. The staff are all used to first-timers and nervous people and will take you through it. Make sure you take your time getting up afterwards and drink plenty of cold fluids (you're allowed a hot drink after your subsequent donations but not your first one). Good luck!

Its a great thing to do and I love going - I always feel so god about myself afterwards. The DCs always want to come with me as they get free biccies and they are amazed at 'how you can get rid of so much blood mum'

Don't be scared, it doesn't hurt and the nurses are all very friendly and used to first timers.

Well done!

I haven't given blood for years - too many pregnancies in quick succession but definitely will do it again. I used to when I was a student - mainly for the free tea and biscuit. (!) Actually lots os students did it thinking that because they has less blood nipping about afterwards it would be cheaper to get drunk. SO...maybe not that approach!

It really is fine - the needle feels like any needle but after that you just get the chance to lie down for a while knowing you are being productive and socially minded at the same time. Unless things have changed dramatically you will be looked after - which is nice if you're a busy person. Please don't worry - I will be doing it again soon myself and I'm sure you will be absolutely fine. I think of how blood donors have helped various people I've loved who needed blood in hospital, as I guess you have thought, and it really is an easy thing to do with an enormous, possibly life-saving, result.

Good luck and hope they have nice biscuits.

Thanks everyone. I know it sounds cheesy but I've got a big grin on my face now knowing that something I'm going to will really make a difference.