§ Mr. OatenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what resources he allocates for the promotion of the importance of training for first aid. [30324]
§ Yvette CooperWithin the safety criteria of the national healthy school standard (NHSS) schools are asked to provide opportunities for all pupils to develop health skills in relation to first aid. The healthy schools programme funds education and health partnerships covering all local education authorities to provide expertise and support to schools working to achieve the NHSS.
Additionally, the "Saving Lives: Our Healthier Nation" White Paper of 1999 committed £2 million to install defibrillators (small portable electronic devices designed to save the lives of people who have suffered cardiac arrest) in "high traffic" public places such as busy railway stations, airports and large shopping complexes. Since April 2000 60 sites have had defibrillators installed under this initiative, and approximately 2,500 people have received training in basic life support and the use of a defibrillator.