First Aid and Inclusivity
One company said no, DAC First Aid said Yes
We were recently approached by an organisation asking if we were able to offer first aid training to an employee with a disability. Our first thought was, what an odd question, why would any first aid training company turn someone away that is keen to learn first aid, that could potentially save another life?
Apparently there are first aid training companies that do exactly this. As we got further into the conversation it became apparent that this organisation had booked a first aid training course but were told that the learner with a disability would be unable to complete the course and therefore not receive a First Aid at Work (FAW) qualification.
We hastily replied to this enquiry in fear that they had already been let down and we didn’t want them to feel that all first aid education providers would turn them away. Of course as with everything, there is some red tape to get through, but we were confident we could find a way to adjust the course and final assessment so it was possible for this learner to receive a first aid qualification.
We spoke to all the necessary people and checked the rules with various governing bodies and our view is very clear. Even with a disability that may prevent them from being physically able to perform certain first aid skills such as CPR or the recovery position, all the same first aid skills would be taught but if there is a practical side that this person's disability hindered them from performing, we have a solution to this and it's really quite simple.
If this person demonstrates that they can remain calm, give clear instructions and possess the knowledge to competently instruct another to perform the life saving tasks, where they are unable, this is still classed as a first aider. While we would not be unable to issue the EFAW or similar certificate we can issue a first aid theory certificate.
They will be the person in the room that has taken the time to learn the theory and practical side of first aid so, in our eyes, that is a first aider. They must still pass the final assessment just like any other learner and we adjust the practical assessment to ensure their first aid knowledge is clear. We will also give them training on how to clearly vocalise the instructions.
Surely all first aid instructors have core values that are to help as many people learn the skills to help others, why should this be any different for someone with a disability. In our current times inclusivity is paramount and shouldn’t really be a question.
Of course, there are going to be times when some elements of first aid are not going to be possible or a situation may arise where there isn’t an able bodied person present to help with the practical side, but in life there are so many possibilities and outcomes that are out of our control but isn’t it better to be prepared and trained rather than do nothing at all.
I’m pleased to say that we were able to help this learner and they are booked on one of our training courses.
#getmeinvolved no matter who you are or your physical capabilities.
