What does a burn look like on a child with black skin? What colour changes might we see on a choking baby or a child of colour? These are just a few of the questions we raise in our latest campaign ‘Diverse Perspectives’. In this week’s blog, we speak to Angie Jay, a Safeguarding and School Nurse (pictured). Angie was so impressed with Mini First Aid’s work to make first aid more inclusive, that she has joined the Mini First Aid team!

Hi Angie. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Hi. I’m a Safeguarding and School Nurse. I’ve just started maternity leave, as I’m about to have twins! I’m a paediatric trained nurse, with experience at Great Ormond Street (Hospital for Children), as a theatre nurse, and in children’s A&E. I have spent the last 7 years in my current role as a school and safeguarding nurse. 

What does your current role involve?

I visit schools, supporting children and their health needs. School and Safeguarding Nurses provide a vital link between school, home and the community. It’s a challenging role and I love it. 

How did ‘Diverse Perspectives’ come about? 

The team at Mini First Aid asked me to run sessions for their trainers about how different conditions might present on black and brown skin. To support the training and future class materials, we began looking for health imagery and found that most of the images available were of white skin. But what if that does not apply to you or the person you are treating? 

So how did you find the images?

We had to search far and wide believe me! Mini First Aid even went to the USA for certain ones. It shouldn’t be the case, which is why we’re leading this change across the first aid industry. I was so impressed with Mini First Aid, that I’ve come on board as their Diversity Training Lead. 

How are you making your classes more inclusive?

We have run training internally for all Mini First Aid trainers about how a range of conditions might present on black and brown skin as well as on white or paler skin tones. Our trainers are already educating adults and children in their classes and we’ve received some great reviews. 

Can you give an example?

I’ve just read an amazing review from a year 6 teacher who congratulated us on making her pupils aware of all the signs and symptoms of choking, as turning blue would only be evident on a child with white skin. As she said herself, our training reflects the fact that we are a multicultural society in the UK. First aid training needs to reflect this which is why I’m so proud to be involved.

You obviously feel passionately about this issue Angie.

Absolutely. It’s so important that we have this inclusive mindset in first aid. If we pick up signs and symptoms quickly, then all children will receive effective treatment. We want to make sure that first aid is relevant to all communities, which in turn will help to save more lives. 

Thanks so much Angie. We’re so delighted to have you on board with Mini First Aid and with Diverse Perspectives!