Why July Is the Perfect Time to Renew Your First Aid Certificate

When was the last time you renewed your First Aid certificate? If it’s been a while — or you’re not quite sure when it expires — July is the ideal month to check, refresh your skills, and stay fully compliant.

At Essex First Aid & Wellbeing, we often see people delay renewing their First Aid qualifications, unaware that outdated knowledge can mean increased liability, reduced confidence, and ineffective response in an emergency. Whether you’re an employer, sports coach, parent, or designated workplace First Aider, staying up to date isn’t just best practice — it’s a legal and ethical responsibility.

Here’s why July is the perfect time to take action.

When Does a First Aid Certificate Expire?

Most First Aid at Work qualifications in the UK are valid for three years.

These include:

• Emergency First Aid at Work (1-day)

• First Aid at Work (3-day)

• Paediatric First Aid (2-day, Ofsted compliant)

• Mental Health First Aid (Adult or Youth)

Refresher training is strongly recommended annually (though not legally required), especially for high-risk workplaces.

Why Renewing Matters

1. Stay Legally Compliant

Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, employers must:

• Provide adequate First Aid provision

• Ensure First Aiders are competent and qualified

• Maintain training records and renewals

Failing to renew could mean you're not covered in an emergency — or even liable in the event of an incident.

2. Keep Up with Medical Updates

First Aid guidelines change over time. In recent years, updates have included:

• CPR compression ratios

• AED (defibrillator) usage protocols

• Recovery position adjustments

• COVID-19 safety in First Aid

Renewing means you’re always using the most up-to-date, evidence-based techniques.

3. Boost Your Confidence

Even with the best memory, skills fade without practice. Regular refreshers mean:

• Faster reaction times

• Less hesitation under pressure

• Improved team coordination

You’ll act with confidence — which could save a life.

Why July Is the Ideal Time to Renew

Mid-Year Review Time

Many organisations conduct performance and training reviews in the summer, making it an ideal time to:

• Audit current certifications

• Plan refresher sessions

• Book team training before the year-end rush

Summer Is Event Season

Outdoor events, travel, festivals and sporting activities mean:

• Greater First Aid risk exposure

• More opportunities for trained responders to be needed

• Increased responsibility for parents, teachers, coaches and volunteers

Being up to date ensures you’re ready, wherever summer takes you.

Avoid the Autumn Backlog

Many companies scramble to book training in Q4 — especially schools, nurseries, and construction firms.

By renewing in July:

• You avoid peak season price hikes

• Get better availability for group or on-site training

• Start the academic or financial year fully compliant

How to Check If You Need to Renew

Ask yourself:

• When did I last complete a First Aid course?

• Do I hold a current certificate (check the expiry date)?

• Am I confident in using CPR, AED, and treating injuries?

• Have I practised First Aid in the past year?

• Have there been any staff or team changes?

If it’s been nearly 3 years — it’s time to renew. We recommend setting a calendar reminder or renewal tracker.

Make Renewal Part of Your Safety Culture

Don’t wait until a crisis reveals a training gap. Proactively renewing First Aid certifications:

• Demonstrates commitment to safety

• Reduces risk and liability

• Empowers individuals and teams

• Saves time, stress and potentially lives