Why So Few Are Ready to Save a Life: The CPR Confidence Crisis

In an emergency, every second matters. Cardiac arrest can strike anywhere—at home, at work, in public. When it does, a quick response can mean the difference between life and death. But shockingly, less than HALF of the population feels confident enough to perform CPR.

This hesitation has a devastating impact on survival rates—Less than 10% survival rates outside of a Hospital and it’s something we urgently need to change.

The Reality of Cardiac Arrest

Every year, approximately 30,000 people in the UK suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Without immediate CPR, a victim’s chances of survival decrease by around 10% for every minute that passes. The ambulance might be on its way, but often, that’s not fast enough.

CPR can double or even triple the chance of survival—but that only happens when someone steps in and knows what they are doing!

What’s Stopping People?

Despite the simplicity and effectiveness of CPR, many people hesitate or walk away. Why?

• Fear of doing it wrong

• Concern about causing harm

• Worry about legal consequences

• A lack of basic training

• Freezing in the moment

It’s not that people don’t care—it’s that they don’t feel prepared. That lack of confidence turns potential lifesavers into bystanders. The fear of not being good enough can often stop us from acting when we need too!

The Hidden Cost to Society

This isn’t just an individual issue—it’s a public health crisis! Every time someone chooses not to act, the outcome can be fatal, not just to the individual, but to their families too. When over half the population lacks the skills or confidence to perform CPR, we’re left dangerously exposed as a society.

Imagine a world where most people felt confident enough to help. It wouldn’t just save lives—it would build stronger, safer communities. After all, confidence and the want to help people would surely breed more positive neighbourly relationships.

The Solution: Education + Empowerment

At ALFA (All Life First Aid), we believe that CPR should be a basic life skill, just like swimming, driving, or using a fire extinguisher. It’s not just about knowing what to do—it’s about building the confidence to do it.

We believe CPR should be taught in schools just like a curriculum. That isn't happening yet and so in the mean time ALFA offers hands-on, practical CPR training designed to empower everyday people—not just professionals. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a tradesperson, or a teenager, you can learn how to save a life and learn how to do it with confidence in your ability.

Take Action Today

Don't wait for an emergency to wish you were ready. Join a CPR course. Learn the skills. Get confident.

Because when someone’s life is on the line, doing something is always better than doing nothing.