The aims and objectives of the visit can influence the degree of risk that parents and participants will find acceptable. For example parents of a primary aged pupil going on a Residential Visit could reasonably expect similar access to medical care as their child would have at home. By contrast, the parents of an older child taking part in an unaccompanied walking expedition in a remote area would accept that access to medical care is limited.
When considering the location of a Residential Visit it is an important part of the risk assessment to consider:
- The type of medical facilities that are available
- How quickly medical care can be accessed
- The aims and objectives of the visit
- The age of the participants
- Any known medical needs
Heads of Establishment and Visit Leaders need to take these factors into account when deciding the level of first aid provision that is required. Where the risk assessment determines the risk is low, it may not be necessary to provide a trained first aider among the accompanying staff. By contrast, if the risk assessment indicates a raised or high level of risk it will necessary for one or more of the accompanying staff to hold a first aid certificate.
It should be noted that there are different levels of first aid training and qualification. Visit Leaders should consult their Local Authority or Employer to establish the level of first aid requirement. This is particularly relevant for higher risk activities.
