If you give blood you have rights which guarantee that:

• each collection session is supervised by an experienced nurse or doctor

• sterile, disposable blood collection equipment is used for each donor and never re-used

• all staff are specially trained and follow strict procedures

• all information about donors is kept in the strictest confidence

• you have access to your records

• interviews about the state of your health will be carried out in private

• you will receive information about the procedures involved

• you will know the names of staff by their name badges and the person in charge of your session with be clearly identified

• your blood with be used for the benefit of patients and will not be sold

• you have a right to complain about any of the services you receive from the National Blood Service, to have your complaint acknowledged within two working days and to receive a full written reply within 20 working days

• receive about two weeks notice of a donor session and a personal invitation to attend

• be asked to attend at a location convenient to you which is easy to find and accessible

• attend sessions at convenient times

• spend no more that one hour at a donor session

• answering conscientiously all personal and health questions to ensure the safety of the blood supply to patients

• telling your local centre about any illness you develop up to two weeks following donation of blood

• donating regularly - you can expect to be called to a session two to three times a year

• making every effort to keep appointments

• informing the local blood centre of any change of address

• encouraging others to become donors. Ask them to call 0345 711711 for more information.