Public first aid course

[TNW]

I'd like to ensure that I'm better able to assist in the case of any basic medical issues by taking a beginner's first aid course. I've searched about for St John's or Red Cross courses, but the SJA told me they don't do public courses anymore post covid and the diary on the Red Cross site seems to be booked out until near the end of the year. Any good experience of 3rd party companies or other orgs that do non-work related / sponsored courses? Just looking for a day / half day to cover the basics. Ideally in Surrey, but no issue travelling to London.

Edited by TNW on Tuesday 9th May 14:53

[OutInTheShed]

I've done several first aid courses via sailing clubs or schools.
Mostly they are given by independent trainers.
Maybe some local sports club or similar can add you on to a course?
Or at least they might know who does such training?
You could also try the local adult education people?

[cml24]

When you say st johns don't do public courses, does this mean you can't just pay and join?

I did a work place first aid training course at St Johns (in surrey) a month or so ago, and some people there were working for themselves or jsut about to start a business. Can't see how its much different!

I would also recommend the trainer and St Johns as I thought he was very good.

[Road2Ruin]

There are many, and I do mean many, independent first aid companies throughout the country. Most, if not all, are far cheaper than SJA or red Cross. Most are also better too. Red Cross and SJA are so focused on a schedule or strict timetables, that they don't have the ability to help individuals.

Just looked on Google and could find 3, 5 star rated, providers.

Ice first aid, safe sure first aid and practical first aid.

Do a one day EFAW. Should be less than £100.

[Derek Smith]

I did a first aid with a bandaging plugin, paid for by my employer.

I've used it three times outside of work. I saved a neighbour's life. That feels as cool as you might imagine. Other times, it's just been temporary before the ambulance arrives, but it helps. Costs a bit in topping up of my first ais kit though.

One of the most useful courses I was sent on. In fact, the most.