Free First Aid Training for Housing Plus Group Customers
Customers of Housing Plus Group are gaining life-saving skills thanks to a free first aid training programme open to tenants.
Delivered alongside staff from across the organisation – including support workers, supervisors, maintenance teams and more – the course is designed to build confidence in responding to emergency situations both at home and in the community.
Tenant Stephanie Parker recently took part in the training and explained why she jumped at the opportunity. She said:
“When the chance came up, I knew I wanted to take part. My previous certification had expired, and keeping up to date is really important to me.
I’ve trained in a range of first aid areas before, including mental health and paediatric first aid, so this session was a great refresher. I’ve just finished a degree in Special Educational Needs and, although I’m taking some personal time at the moment, I still want to stay sharp.
First aid is always evolving and this course helped me stay current. And the HPG team always create a welcoming, supportive space to learn in.”
Trainer Sonja Proctor-Sales, who delivered the course, highlighted the wide range of participants and the practical, hands-on approach. She said:
“It’s been fantastic to see such a mix of people getting involved – from different roles and backgrounds, including Housing Plus Group staff and customers.
“We begin by talking through emergency response plans before diving into basic life support. Everyone gets stuck in with practical exercises like CPR and other essential techniques. It’s all about building confidence and knowing what to do when it matters most.”
Please note: The CPR element of the training requires participants to be able to get down to the floor and back up again, which may be a consideration for those with mobility needs.
Helen Hackney, another Housing Plus Group tenant, said:
“Having worked in the care sector for many years, first aid was always a part of my basic training. I assumed I would only use these skills at work, but on several occasions, I’ve been able to use my first aid skills to support members of the public until the professionals arrived!
“Doing something is better than nothing, so I was delighted as an HPG tenant to be offered the opportunity to refresh my First Aid Skills for free! Not only is this a valuable skill that can save lives, but it’s also a skill that can add to your life. It shows an aptitude to want to help others and to learn new skills which are valuable to any workplace, team, club, faith, or educational setting.
“I really enjoyed it! It was a lot of fun and no heavy exams! Why not give it a go?”
More first aid training sessions will be available for tenants throughout the year. To find out how you can get involved, email getinvolved@wrekin.com.
11th April 2025