The New Approval Body for
Paediatric
First Aid Training
In July 2006, the approval system that was in place for paediatric first aid was withdrawn, which left many first aid training organisations with no credible approval system for paediatric first aid training and the effective de-regulation of the Paediatric first aid training industry. This has opened the door to any training provider, regardless of quality standards, to deliver first aid training to Childminders and Nursery Workers.
The PFAA is a non-profit association established to
address the current ‘lack of regulation’ in the Paediatric
First Aid Training Industry. The PFAA intends to set and
maintain a consistently high standard of first aid
training to the childcare industry. It aims to ensure that
member training providers have an independent identity
with the credibility, support and monitoring of a
professional trade body.
Following the NCMA’s decision to end their approval
process, discussions took place between Peter Pocock,
Ian Irwin, Chris Young, Paul Stedman and Nigel
Barraclough. The need for a replacement approval
system was quickly recognised.
Peter and Ian represent the Association of Independent First Aid at Work Training Organisations (AIFAWTO),
who represent around 130 FAW approved first aid
training organisations. Chris Young is an Emergency
Medical Technician and Chief Exec of Medic First Aid,
who have around 250 training centres throughout the
UK. Paul Stedman is an Ex-Paramedic, Trainer and
owner of Cognet Limited. Nigel
Barraclough is a Paramedic, Trainer and Author of many
first aid books (including a paediatric first aid book).
The Government intends to remove all regulation regarding the training and qualifications of first-aid personnel in the workplace, leaving employers to decide not only what level of cover they require, but also the type, duration, syllabus and qualifications and competency of trainer. PFAA believe that this is outside of the recommendations of the Löfstedt report since it will put all the onus on the employer to ensure that “the training meets a certain standard”. We believe that this puts an unfair burden on the employer and has the potential to negatively impact on the health and safety of the workplace.
It is our intention as an organisation to oppose these changes. An e-petition opposing the deregulation has been started, and we would be grateful if as many people as possible signed this, so that at least the changes can be properly debated in Parliament.
Please sign the E-PETITION
If you have any further comments or suggestions, please contact us at info@pfaa.org.uk |
