Introduction
Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Qualifications in Event Medicine
In the world of event medical planning, roles like First Aider and First Responder are often used interchangeably — but they are not the same thing.
If you’re organising an event, understanding the difference is critical. It affects patient care, compliance, and your ability to respond to incidents effectively. It also determines what qualifications are required on-site — from basic First Aid at Work (FAW) to more advanced certifications like FREC 3, FREC 4 and FROS.
This guide breaks down what each role entails and how they apply in the event sector.
What is a first aider
A First Aider is someone who has completed an approved first aid qualification and is trained to deliver basic, immediate care to someone who is ill or injured before more qualified help arrives.
In the UK, the most common qualification is:
First Aid at Work (FAW)
- Level: Regulated by Ofqual, usually Level 3
- Duration: 3 days (18 hours)
Covers: CPR, bleeding, burns, shock, unconsciousness, minor injuries - Use at Events: Suitable for Tier 1 or 2 events where risks are low
- Limitations: Not trained to deal with serious trauma or clinical interventions
First Aiders are essential in many low-risk environments, but they are not clinically trained and are not suitable for leading medical response at medium or high-risk events.
What is a first responder
A First Responder refers to someone with enhanced pre-hospital care training, capable of delivering a broader range of interventions — often including oxygen therapy, airway management, and trauma care.
This is not a protected title in the UK, which means the quality and scope of training can vary depending on the qualification. However, there are now nationally recognised pathways for pre-hospital responders.
Let’s look at the key qualifications relevant to the event medical sector
FREC 3: First Response Emergency Care – Level 3
FREC 3, or First Response Emergency Care Level 3, is a regulated qualification in the UK designed for those who provide pre-hospital emergency care. It is typically delivered over five days and serves as the foundation for more advanced clinical roles. The course equips learners with the skills to assess patients, manage basic airways, control catastrophic bleeding, provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), use an automated external defibrillator (AED), administer oxygen, and manage minor trauma. It is often held by first responders working in event medicine, security, or industrial environments, and is suitable for medium-risk events where a higher level of care is required than standard first aid can provide.
Ready to cover your event?
Get started by completing the short online form using the link below. This will give us everything we need to risk assess and quote your event. Feel free to give us a call to discuss your requirements.
FREC 4: First Response Emergency Care – Level 4
FREC 4, or First Response Emergency Care Level 4, is an advanced pre-hospital care qualification that builds on the skills gained at FREC 3. It is aimed at individuals who take on more senior or supervisory roles in emergency care settings. The course covers enhanced patient assessment, advanced airway management, medical emergencies, trauma care, and working within a command structure during incidents. FREC 4 is suitable for those supporting larger or higher-risk events and is often a stepping stone toward paramedic training. It enables responders to manage more complex cases and to operate more independently within a medical team.
What Organisers Should Consider
Match qualifications to risk
Your medical plan should reflect the complexity and risk of the event. A Tier 3 festival with alcohol and overnight camping needs a different skill mix than a Tier 1 charity fun run.
Check titles carefully
‘First Responder’ is not a protected title in the UK. Always ask providers what qualification sits behind that label.
Look for governance and oversight
At larger events, first responders should operate under the guidance of a clinical lead such as a paramedic, nurse or doctor. Clear protocols, incident reporting and safeguarding structures must be in place.
In Summary
The difference between a First Aider and a First Responder is not just about training — it’s about capability.
- First Aiders are ok for low-risk care
- First Responders are trained for pre-hospital emergencies
- Qualifications like FREC 3 and 4 are becoming the standard benchmark for event medicine
- Organisers must ensure the right level of cover is in place, based on risk and event tier
Understanding this distinction helps protect your attendees, your staff, and your reputation.
