Key statistics

• Approximately 40% of parents in the UK have witnessed their own child in a life-threatening situation, yet less than 20% feel adequately prepared to administer first aid .
• Over 2,000 children die from accidents in the UK each year, highlighting the critical need for effective first aid training (NHS).

Legislation and regulations

In the UK, several pieces of legislation and guidelines emphasise the importance of paediatric first aid training:

• Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 - Requires employers, including those in settings with children such as schools and nurseries, to provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities, and personnel to ensure immediate first aid can be given to employees if they are injured or become ill at work.
• Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2017 - Mandates that all newly qualified entrants to the early years workforce in England must have a paediatric first aid certificate.

Importance of training

The importance of paediatric first aid training cannot be overstated. It equips individuals with the skills to manage emergency situations confidently and competently, potentially saving a child’s life. Training ensures that first aiders are not only able to perform techniques such as CPR correctly but are also prepared to act quickly and efficiently, minimising the impact of the injury or illness.

Critical skills and recommendations

• CPR for infants and children - Different techniques are required for infants and older children, emphasising the need for specific training in paediatric CPR.
• Choking hazards and intervention - Recognising and responding to choking incidents, including back slaps and abdominal thrusts tailored to the child’s size and age.
• Managing seizures and allergies - Essential responses to common childhood emergencies, such as administering an EpiPen for severe allergic reactions.

Training should be refreshed regularly to keep skills up-to-date and ensure readiness to respond in an emergency. The Mandatory Training Group provides accredited courses that cover all aspects of paediatric first aid, tailored to meet the needs of different audiences.

Conclusion

Paediatric first aid is a critical skill that can mean the difference between life and death in emergency situations. The Mandatory Training Group is committed to providing comprehensive training that empowers individuals to act confidently and effectively. We encourage parents, educators, and anyone involved in childcare to enrol in our paediatric first aid courses. Preparing for emergencies is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a moral obligation to ensure the safety of our children.

Don’t wait for an emergency to realise the importance of paediatric first aid training. Click here to find out more about our accredited courses and how you can make a difference in a child’s life. Be prepared, be informed, and be ready to act when it matters most.