Gay men in the Isle of Man only became eligible to donate blood in 2023. The change, championed by Manx actor Joe Locke, replaced a lifetime ban and brought us in line with the UK.

For a long time, donating blood was something I supported, but couldn’t take part in. When the rules changed, it felt like an invitation to contribute in a practical, ordinary way, like so many others already do.

I enrolled online using a straightforward form, and within a few weeks I received an appointment letter. On my first visit, the Manx Care staff were the standout part of the whole experience. From registration to aftercare, they were friendly, caring, and genuinely grateful to everyone who came in.

One point that’s easy to miss is that, for Isle of Man donors, all the blood stays on the Island and is used in our health service all the time. That’s a big part of what keeps me coming back. You know you’re doing something that directly helps people here.

I’m not interested in guilt-tripping anyone into donating blood. People have personal or medical reasons why they can’t or don’t want to, and I understand that.

I’m also in awe of the many people who have donated consistently for years, and I hope to join the ranks of long-time donors one day.

What I can say, truthfully, is that once I became eligible, donating felt like a chance to do something small that could matter a lot to someone else.

If you’re eligible, I suggest it’s worth looking into.