How to become a platelet donor

Are you a blood donor? Make the switch from donating blood to platelets. 

There are 3 steps to becoming a platelet donor: 

  1. Check who we need

  2. Register your interest in becoming a platelet donor

  3. Take part in an assessment to check your suitability when you next give blood

Around 50% of people who go through this process are able to donate platelets.

Donor with headphones on during platelets donation
One donation can help up to 3 adults or 12 children

Who we need

You may be able to donate platelets if all of the following apply to you. 

You need to:

  • have A negative, A positive or AB negative blood

  • have given blood or platelets before

  • be between 17 and 65 (find out more if aged 66+)

  • weigh more than 50kg

  • be able to spare up to 2 hours to donate

  • be able to travel to one of our donor centres 

Read more about who can donate and where you can donate

Checking your suitability

When you next give blood we will carry out a quick and simple platelet sample assessment.

At the assessment we will:

  • assess your veins to see if they are suitable to give platelets

  • check you have enough blood to donate safely. This is based on your height and weight

  • take a blood sample to check your platelet count


You will also have the chance to ask any questions.

Getting your results

We'll let you know within 4 weeks whether you are suitable to donate platelets or not.

What happens next

Your next steps depend on your suitability and your sex assigned at birth.

If you are: 

  • suitable and were assigned female at birth – we’ll invite you to a short (15 minute) second appointment to take another blood sample. This checks for antibodies that are harmless to you but could affect patients.

  • suitable – you can book your first platelet donation appointment using your online account, the NHS Give Blood App or by calling us. In some cases, someone may also get in touch to help you book

  • not suitable – don't worry, you can still help save lives by giving blood.

If you don't hear from us

If you haven’t had your results after 8 weeks, please email us with your details.

Become a platelet donor

Complete the form and we'll contact you to book an assessment.

Register your interest