First aid provision: requirements and guidance

Find out what you need to do to comply with requirements on first aid provision in schools and early years settings.

Last reviewed on 22 January 2024 See updates

School types: All • School phases: All • Ref: 1406

1. Understand your minimum requirements
2. Carry out a first aid needs assessment
3. Outline your first aid provision in your policy
4. Appoint someone to be in charge of first aid arrangements
5. Arrange training for your first aiders
6. Aim to get consent when delivering first aid
7. Know the requirements for the EYFS

Understand your minimum requirements

Your school must:

• Provide the proper first aid materials, equipment and facilities, including a suitably stocked first aid box. (See the grey box below to find out what items you should have in your box. First aid boxes should be marked with a white cross on a green background)
• Appoint a person to take charge of first aid arrangements – read more about this in the section below
• Make sure you have information for staff that covers the location of first aid:
  • Equipment (this should be clearly labelled and easily accessible)
  • Facilities
  • Personnel