First aid & homelessness

It is important that staff and volunteers in homelessness services know some basic first aid. These skills may need to be used at any time, and knowing what to do could make a huge difference to a person's recovery. It might even save a life.

Although basic first aid skills are applicable in all situations, there are some particular considerations for staff and volunteers working in homelessness services. With this in mind, the British Red Cross has prepared an FAQ sheet which contains lots of useful information. Click here to access it.

There are also lots of first aid videos available to watch on the British Red Cross website. These are a particularly useful resource, as they show how to implement first aid correctly, and in a very clear way. Click here to watch them.

TRAINING

Homeless Link offers a first aid training course, in partnership with the British Red Cross, which is specifically tailored to meet the needs of front line workers. This course gives attendees the skills and confidence to deal with medical emergencies ‘on the street’ or in situations where they might not have access to first aid equipment.

Resources

•    Supporting people to learn about basic first aid can be empowering. The BRC Community Programme addresses the health needs of vulnerable families in both urban and rural areas, in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Liberia and Sierra Leone
•    Find out more about Homeless Link’s work in the field of health and homelessness on our Health Pages
•    Read about what health services are available for homeless people here
•    Take a look at alternative training opportunities with Homeless Link here.