Community basic life support sessions

Community basic life support (BLS) training – learn skills that save lives

In the UK, only around 8% of people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest when resuscitation is attempted. However, when effective CPR is started quickly and a defibrillator is used within the first 3–5 minutes, survival rates can increase to as much as 40–70%.

That’s a powerful difference – and it’s one you can help make.

Our community BLS training sessions are designed to give you the skills and confidence to act fast in an emergency. If someone’s heart stops, you could be the person who starts the chain of survival and gives them the best possible chance of recovery.

The chain of survival refers to a series of time-critical actions that, when delivered quickly, significantly improve outcomes following cardiac arrest. Bystanders play a vital role in starting this chain – often before emergency services arrive.

In this friendly, supportive two-hour session, you will learn:

• How to recognise when someone is in cardiac arrest
• How to perform effective CPR
• How to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

You’ll also have the opportunity to practise these skills in a safe, supportive environment.

Who is it for?

These sessions are aimed at non-clinical members of the public, aged 16 and over.

Key details:

• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: Free (spaces kindly sponsored by our charity)
• Booking: Required in advance
• Delivered by: Experienced clinicians from Royal Papworth Hospital, including paramedics, nurses, and doctors

Whether you’re looking to build confidence, learn something new, or simply be prepared – this session could help you save a life.

Book your place today

This free basic life support training will be provided by experienced clinicians from Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the UK's leading heart and lung hospital