HSE has become aware of recent communications put out widely to the first aid community, in part relating to draft guidance which was previously subject to consultation.  As first aid training providers have seen these communications, some have contacted HSE.  The following should clarify any confusion that may have been caused:

During the review of the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, HSE has consulted extensively with employer duty holders, employees, first aiders and first aid training providers.  Its proposals, and more recently draft guidance, have changed as a consequence of comments from stakeholders.

HSE has no desire to diminish the level of first aid provision in the workplace.  On the contrary, its primary focus is to ensure that employers can secure compliance with the Regulations by being able to access competent first aid and provide a more proportionate response to their first aid needs.  The changes to the first aid training regime should help facilitate this.     

At a recent stakeholder meeting, it was clearly stated that the cooperation of all interested parties was needed to achieve implementation of the changes to first aid training arrangements from 1 October 2009.  While this date remains feasible, recent developments have started to divert limited resources away from the main focus of activity.