Do event first aiders need CQC registration?
Genuine first aid at events stays outside CQC regulation. Here is where first aid ends, when TDDI begins, and the test that decides most cases.
Genuine first aid at events is not a regulated activity, so a first aid service does not need to register with CQC. The difficulty is that CQC now describes first aid narrowly, and many services that call themselves first aid will fall within the regulated activity treatment of disease, disorder or injury (TDDI).
What counts as first aid
CQC describes first aid as the initial response to a sudden illness or injury, to preserve life, prevent deterioration and support the person until further help arrives, using interventions generally recognised as first aid. That includes simple observations, deciding whether someone needs emergency help, CPR and using a defibrillator.
When it stops being first aid
It needs registration if your service includes:
- a clinical diagnosis;
- treatment that needs a listed professional's judgement;
- interpreting clinical investigations, including ECGs;
- prescription-only medicines, or patient group or patient specific directions;
- ongoing treatment or care.
The test that decides most cases
If a paramedic, nurse or doctor you have booked uses the skills or judgement that come from their professional registration, it is TDDI, whatever your company or contract is called. A first aid company whose first aiders ask a nurse or paramedic for clinical advice has moved beyond first aid too.
A team of emergency care assistants and community first responders only, with no listed professional, is not providing TDDI. A clinician who helps unexpectedly as an unpaid bystander is a Good Samaritan and out of scope, but that never covers a clinician you have booked.
What to do now
Write down your reasoning service by service, so you can show it if your scope is questioned. If your case is not clear, ask CQC's events team before you decide you are out of scope. From 6 December 2027, providing TDDI at an event without registration is an offence.
Read our full guide to CQC registration for event medical providers. Not sure if you are in scope? Our event healthcare CQC registration support starts with a free 30-minute call.
Free download: event medical CQC readiness checklist as Word or PDF.
Related
CQC registration for event medical providers
The full 2027 guide: who must register, first aid or TDDI, and how to apply in time.
Read moreEvent healthcare CQC registration support
Scope review, provider set-up, statement of purpose, policies and interview practice.
Read moreHow to register with CQC
A step by step guide for new providers.
Read moreEvent healthcare provider? Find out if you need to register.
A free 30-minute call to check whether your service is in scope and what to have in place before 1 March 2027.