Over 1700 people trained in first aid in Kent in first quarter 2011

 

Beating all previous training levels, St John Ambulance Kent is delighted to announce that in the first quarter of 2011 (January – March) over 1700 people across the county were trained in first aid skills.

John Hougham, Commander of St John Ambulance in Kent said, 'This figure is fantastic as it beats last year's first quarter figures by an amazing 149%.'
 
Since January this year over 500 members of the public have been trained in first aid, along with 592 children who have received training through the charity's Young First Aider course.
 
In addition 569 St John Ambulance volunteers across the county attended courses to extend their existing first aid knowledge.  The charity also trained over 100 under 5's in North Kent through its specially developed "Teddy Bear First Aid Course" which teaches youngsters how to apply a bandage, using their own teddy as a patient, and how to make a 999 call.
 
John Hougham continued:

'These figures really do demonstrate that the public understand the importance of learning such vital life skills. In 2010 when we launched The difference campaign research showed us that in the South East two-thirds of those questioned (58%) wouldn't feel confident trying to save a life and a quarter (25%) would do nothing and wait for an ambulance or hope that somebody else could assist. 
 
'We hope that the 1700 people trained in Kent since the start of the year now feel confident to assist should they find themselves in a situation where a person needs medical assistance.'