As part of the process for selecting and purchasing a donor from Sussex Sperm Bank, we require you to reserve a family slot to secure the donor of your choice. But what is a family slot and why do you need one? Let’s break down how it all works!
What is a Family Slot?
Family Slots give patients the right to purchase samples from a specific donor and use them for their upcoming treatment plans, such as an IUI insemination or an IVF procedure.
Why do I need one?
The UK has strict limits in place for anyone using donor gametes (this applies to donor eggs, sperm or embryos) in fertility treatments. These regulations have been created and are overseen by a regulatory body called the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). The HFEA regulations limit) the number of families that can be created for each donor at 10 families, not including the donors own family. Family slots allow our team to accurately adhere to these important regulations.
When should I get one?
Before purchasing a specimen for treatment, you must first purchase and reserve a family slot for the donor of your choice. To find out if a donor has family slots available, you can visit the donor profile located on our website and view the number of slots purchased so far. From there, you can add a slot to your cart for purchase. The BFA team is also available to assist with reserving and purchasing a slot for the donor of your choice.
How long do I have the slot?
Family slots can be purchased in an initial increment of 1 year with extensions of either six or 12 months available after the initial year, and the time begins on the first day of transport to your clinic or first day of onsite storage of your purchased samples. Once family limits have been met for a donor, any remaining samples in inventory will only be available for owners of family slots for future siblings.
How much does a family slot cost?
We offer an initial 12 month family slot, which can be reserved for £400. Extensions of either six or 12 months are available after the initial year, the cost for a 6 month extension is £300 and the cost for a 12 month extension is £400. These must be renewed if you wish to extend the time frame longer than 1 year. We understand that treatment plans often get interrupted or stalled for unforeseen reasons, and our team is here to support you with ensuring your donor samples are available and ready when you need them. Reach out to us if you find that you are in need of specialized support.
What happens to my family slot after I have a baby?
Once you have submitted a birth report to us, your family slot becomes permanent guaranteeing access to any available donor samples for future siblings. You will not be required to purchase and renew family slots for your donor after this point.
If you have questions about family slots or donor availability, feel free to contact the BFA Client Services team via email at [email protected] or by phone 01273 620165 and we will be happy to assist you.