Basic Life Support to reach communities and organisations across the UK

Hands on chest of manikin performing CPR demonstration

First aiders for organisations, including Scouts, community sports clubs, police, firefighters and the workplace will now benefit from Basic Life Support training from The Resuscitation Council UK.

Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) has created the innovative Basic Life Support Instructor course (BLSi), which provides a firm foundation for the delivery of Basic Life Support (BLS) training, including CPR and how to use a defibrillator. RCUK aims to empower those who currently deliver BLS training with increased expertise, so more people have the confidence to step in and save a life.

The course consists of seven e-learning modules featuring presenter led video content, designed by experienced clinicians and resuscitation experts.

Almost three-quarters of people surveyed in the UK have learned how to perform CPR – but less than half feel confident performing the life-saving technique. Fear of not performing CPR correctly (36 per cent) was the main concern, and 25 per cent were fearful that they weren’t trained enough to perform CPR.

BLSi is aimed at those who are already trained in delivering Basic Life Support training - including First Aid providers and Instructors. It is available to both new, existing and experienced BLS trainers.

The life-saving course is designed to give Instructors the knowledge and background they need to teach with confidence. It provides the latest research in resuscitation practice and science.

Sue Hampshire, Director of Clinical & Service Development at Resuscitation Council UK said: “BLSi is a crucial Instructor programme that will ensure people are being effectively and appropriately taught the skills to save a life, and in turn, we will be on our way to creating a nation of lifesavers"

A Basic Life Support trainer who trialled the course said: “The course is well presented and gives good awareness of statistics on survival rates, in order to reinforce learning points in my workplace.”

To purchase this course please visit the RCUK learning portal.

For more information please call the Resuscitation Council UK Press Office on 0207 391 0730 or email communications@resus.org.uk. Victoria.gadsden@resus.org.uk

Wed, 25/01/2023

1. Almost three-quarters of people surveyed have learned how to perform CPR – but less than half feel confident in performing the life-saving technique. Being scared about not performing CPR correctly (36 per cent) was the main concern, and 25 per cent were fearful they are not trained enough to perform CPR. One Poll Survey of 2,000 UK Adults - October 2022
2. Resuscitation Council UK is saving lives by developing guidelines, inﬂuencing policy, delivering courses and supporting cutting-edge research. Through education, training and research, we’re working towards the day when everyone in the country has the skills they need to save a life.