What are the main first aid guideline changes in 2025?

The biggest changes include the new dedicated first aid chapter, the structured ABCDE approach to casualty assessment, a much stronger focus on life-threatening bleeding, and updated guidance such as jaw thrust for suspected spinal injuries, using speakerphone for 999 calls, and recognising mental health emergencies.

Do I need to retrain my first aiders?

Not immediately. Certificates are valid for three years. However, the HSE recommends annual refresher training, and a refresher is the ideal time to update on the new guidelines.

When will training courses include the new guidelines?

From early 2026 onwards, EFAW and FAW courses are being updated to reflect the 2025 guideline changes as awarding bodies roll them into their courses.

What is the ABCDE approach?

A structured framework for assessing casualties: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure. It gives first aiders a systematic way to identify and prioritise life-threatening conditions.

Have the first aid guidelines changed in 2026?

The guidelines were published by the Resuscitation Council UK in late 2025 and are being implemented into training courses from early 2026. If your team trained before these updates, a refresher session will bring them up to date.

New First Aid Guidelines

rachel86988

Jun 4

4 min read

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