Can you give first aid if not trained?
When faced with a medical emergency, your instinct may be to help, yet many people hesitate, fearing they aren't trained. In the UK, a common question arises: Can you give first aid without formal training?
This blog explores the key things to remember and the steps to take when helping someone during a medical emergency, especially if you are not trained in first aid.
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What does the law say about giving first aid without formal training?
Under UK law, there’s no requirement for formal first aid training to assist in an emergency.
The core aims of first aid are to preserve life, prevent the situation from worsening and promote recovery.
You can provide first aid if you have basic knowledge, remain calm and alert, can assess the situation confidently, and respond quickly to help prevent further harm.
The Good Samaritan laws2 protect those who assist in emergencies. These laws shield well-meaning individuals from legal liability, provided their actions were reasonable and aimed at helping.
Acting responsibly and within your skill level ensures both your safety and legal protection.
It is important to ask for the casualty's consent before giving first aid. Touching someone without permission could be classed as assault. However, the law allows the assumption that an unconscious casualty gives consent.
Although the law allows untrained individuals to administer first aid, it is essential that you can recognise your limitations.
For example,
- Basic first aid, such as CPR and applying pressure to bleeding wounds to stop them, can be life-saving.
- Any complex medical procedures and interventions should be left to trained professionals to handle.
Knowing when you should step in and when you should seek additional help is crucial.
What should I do if I come across a medical emergency?
If you are ever in a situation where there is somebody who requires first aid, remember these steps:
- Assess the safety of the scene before approaching the individual in need.
- Call emergency services (999 or 112) for professional assistance.
- Provide basic first aid that matches your skill level while you wait for help to arrive.
- Comfort the victim and offer some reassurance until emergency services arrive.
The Importance of Basic First Aid Knowledge
Even without formal qualifications, having basic first aid knowledge empowers you to act with confidence.
Learning how to assess a situation, provide CPR, or manage shock can drastically improve outcomes.
These skills can be learned through community classes, online courses, or first aid workshops.
Workplace Health & Safety and First Aid Regulations
According to the Health and Safety Regulations (First Aid) Act (1981)2 it is a legal requirement for all the employers to provide right first aid equipment, facilities, and people in place to help if someone gets hurt or falls ill at work.
Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Act 20153 provides limited legal protection to individuals in the UK who carry out acts of heroism. However, this protection only goes so far. You should only intervene to save a life if you are confident and have basic first aid knowledge. Otherwise, it is best to wait for emergency services to arrive and follow the recommended steps outlined above.
To conclude, yes, you can give first aid without formal training in the UK. While accredited first aid training is strongly recommended, having basic knowledge and a willingness to act can genuinely save lives. Stay calm, stay within your limits, and always prioritise safety for yourself and the person in need.
References
1. NIH: Good Samaritan Laws
2. Health and Safety Regulations (First Aid) Act (1981): legislation gov.uk
3. Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Act 2015: legislation gov.uk