Thousands of LGBTQ+ families are waiting, and you could be part of their story. Here's how gay men across the UK are stepping up to help create the next generation of love, laughter, and family, without having to become parents themselves.

You Could Help Create a Family - No Parenting Required.

Families today come in many forms. From same-sex female couples to single parents by choice and couples facing infertility, more people than ever are relying on sperm donors to build the lives they've always dreamed of.

But while demand is growing, one group remains underrepresented among donors: gay men.

At Sussex Sperm Bank, the team is working to change that. By encouraging more gay men to consider donating, they're expanding access, offering recipients greater choice, and increasing representation in donor-conceived families.

"It's One of the Most Meaningful Things I've Ever Done"

"Donating sperm was one of the most meaningful things I've ever done. I didn't expect how proud I'd feel to be part of someone else's family story." - a gay donor featured in Vice's article

A growing number of gay men are stepping forward to donate, not just to sperm banks, but also to friends and chosen family members. As the above-mentioned Vice article explores, many find that donation is not about being "the dad," but about being part of someone's journey to becoming a parent. It's a legacy rooted in kindness, trust, and possibility.

The Benefits No One Talks About (But Every Donor Gets)

Becoming a sperm donor is an act of generosity, but it's also an opportunity to learn more about your own health and fertility, with support from a professional team that respects your privacy.

At Sussex Sperm Bank, donors receive:

●      Free medical screening (STI testing, semen analysis, and more)

●      Free genetic testing for hereditary conditions

●      Up to £45 in compensation per donation

●      A welcoming and inclusive space, no matter your orientation

●      Flexible appointments at a conveniently located clinic in Hove

In addition, the full list of benefits is available at Donor Perks.

Did You Know?

Many people are surprised to learn just how accessible and meaningful sperm donation can be, and how uniquely positioned gay men are to make a difference. Whether you're motivated by science, community, or the simple joy of helping others, here are a few key things to know:

●      Gay men are underrepresented in donor programmes across the UK

●      One donor can help multiple families

●      You can choose whether to be anonymous or part of our Open ID programme

●      You'll gain valuable insights into your own reproductive health at no cost to you

What the Science Says

Sperm banks like Sussex follow clinical best practices for donor screening. According to the NHS and other national standards, sperm donors undergo a series of evaluations, including medical history review, blood testing, semen analysis, and genetic screening.

A 2016 study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information emphasised the importance of thorough screening in preventing the transmission of heritable conditions, making it safer for both recipients and donor-conceived children.

Helping LGBTQ+ Families Starts Here

Representation in donor banks means everything to many LGBTQ+ parents. Some recipients look for donors who understand what it means to grow up queer or want their child to share a part of their identity. Others simply want to know their donor made an intentional, thoughtful choice.

By choosing to donate, gay men help normalise LGBTQ+ pathways to parenthood, offer inclusive representation, and make it easier for other families to find the right match.

Who Can Become a Donor?

Sussex Sperm Bank welcomes applicants who:

●      Are between 18 and 45 years old

●      Are in generally good health

●      Live within commuting distance of the Hove clinic

●      Are open to medical screening and follow-up

Applicants can start the process online here: Become a Sperm Donor

Flexibility Meets Impact

Once approved, donors can schedule appointments that work for their routine, early mornings, weekdays, and weekend slots are available. Each donation is safely and respectfully handled at the Hove clinic.

And because Sussex Sperm Bank is part of the global Seattle Sperm Bank network, donors become part of a mission that prioritises transparency, health, ethics, and representation.

A Quiet, Powerful Way to Give Back

Sperm donation may not come with parades or medals, but for many donors, especially gay men, it's a way to create connection, legacy, and impact without parenting responsibilities. For someone out there, your donation could be the missing piece in their dream of becoming a parent.

There's no pressure to stay involved. Donors can remain anonymous or opt into the Open ID programme, where children conceived via their donation can reach out after age 18, if both parties wish to connect.

Ready to Learn More?

Those interested in becoming donors can start the process online or reach out directly with any questions.

Apply here
Explore benefits here