BEFORE YOU REQUEST A QUOTE
Start with your first-aid needs assessment, then price suitable training and the staff time needed to attend. A cheap place on the wrong course does not solve a gap in workplace cover.
In this buying guide
Explain the workplace before asking for course placesCompare open courses with training at your premisesCheck the provider and assessment processInclude costs beyond the advertised course feePlan how the training becomes workplace coverQuestions for providersExplain the workplace before asking for course places
Describe the work hazards, staff locations, working patterns and absence cover. HSE says first-aid provision should follow an assessment of needs. The role of an appointed person is different from that of a trained first-aider. Ask which course meets the identified requirement rather than deciding purely from course length or the number of employees.
Compare open courses with training at your premises
Ask whether pricing is per learner or for a group, and whether there is a minimum or maximum group size. Compare travel, accommodation if relevant, staff release time and the suitability of the training space. An on-site course may simplify travel but still requires arrangements for the people who remain at work. Confirm how cancelled places and substitute learners are handled.
Check the provider and assessment process
Ask about trainer and assessor competence, course content, quality assurance and the award issued on successful completion. HSE no longer approves first-aid training providers; a claim of HSE approval should be queried. Request clear information about practical assessment, any prerequisites and the arrangements if a learner does not complete successfully. Keep the evidence used to choose the provider.
Include costs beyond the advertised course fee
Ask whether materials, assessment, certification and any required follow-up are included. Check cancellation charges and how a missed session affects completion. For blended learning, ask how much work must be done before attendance and plan that time. Use the same number of successful learners and the same required course when comparing options.
Plan how the training becomes workplace cover
After training, record who completed which course and the relevant certificate dates. Update the workplace arrangements so staff know how to get help. Plan for leave, sickness and shift changes rather than assuming the trained person is always present. Keep course bookings and wider first-aid needs under review when the workforce or work changes.
Questions to include in your quote request
Send the same brief to each provider, and ask them to identify assumptions and exclusions in their reply.
- Which assessed need does this course address?
- What evidence supports the trainer and provider’s competence?
- Are assessment, certificates and all learner materials included?
- How will staff absence and unsuccessful completion be covered?
Common buying questions
Does HSE approve first aid training providers?
No. HSE explains that it does not approve providers. Employers need to select suitable, competent training provision.
Should everyone attend the same course?
Choose training around assessed roles and workplace needs. Do not assume one course is the answer for every location, shift or activity.
Check the requirement before buying
These source-linked safety guides explain scope and jurisdiction. They remain drafts pending specialist review.
- How many first-aiders does my business need? — England, Wales, Scotland
Official sources behind the distinctions
Sources checked 3 November 2026. Our quote-comparison suggestions are editorial guidance; these organisations do not endorse providers or this website.
This is purchasing guidance, not an assessment of your premises, technical approval or an interpretation of your contract. We do not publish unverified market-price ranges. Ask for a written quote for your actual scope.
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