Understanding Sarah’s Act and Your Legal Protection
Fear of doing the wrong thing should never stop someone from doing the right thing. Can You Be Sued for Giving First Aid?
Imagine you’re walking through a shopping centre when someone suddenly collapses. People gather around, but nobody steps forward. One person quietly says, “I don’t want to get involved in case I get sued.”
Unfortunately, this is a fear many people share.
Whether it’s performing CPR, using an automated external defibrillator (AED), helping someone who is choking or controlling severe bleeding, many people worry that if something goes wrong, they could be held legally responsible.
The good news is that in the UK, this fear is largely unfounded.
The law recognises that people who step forward to help in an emergency are acting with good intentions. In fact, legislation commonly known as Sarah’s Act was introduced to provide reassurance that those acting responsibly and heroically should not be unfairly penalised for trying to save a life.
In this article, we’ll explain what Sarah’s Act is, whether you can really be sued for giving first aid, how the law protects those who help in emergencies, and why first aid training gives people the confidence to act when every second counts.
Why Are People Afraid to Give First Aid?
When we deliver first aid training, one question comes up time and time again:
“Can I get sued if I help someone?”
It is an understandable concern. News stories, television dramas and social media often give the impression that legal action is common whenever someone is injured.
As a result, many people worry about:
- Making the casualty worse.
- Breaking ribs while performing CPR.
- Giving incorrect treatment.
- Being blamed if the casualty dies.
- Being taken to court.
Sadly, these fears can prevent people from acting quickly during an emergency.
The reality is that hesitation can have devastating consequences. During a cardiac arrest, for example, every minute without CPR and defibrillation significantly reduces the person’s chance of survival.
In many situations, doing nothing poses a far greater risk than trying to help.
Can You Be Sued for Giving First Aid?
The simple answer is:
Anyone can make a legal claim against almost anyone. However, successfully suing someone who acted reasonably and in good faith to help during an emergency is extremely unlikely in the UK.
The courts recognise an important distinction between someone who is genuinely trying to save a life and someone who acts recklessly or deliberately causes harm.
When considering negligence, the court asks questions such as:
- Were you genuinely trying to help?
- Did you act responsibly?
- Were your actions reasonable given the emergency?
- Did you deliberately ignore obvious risks?
If the answer to those questions demonstrates that you acted honestly and with the intention of helping, the law is generally supportive of your actions.
This is where Sarah’s Act becomes particularly important.
What Is Sarah’s Act?
Many people refer to the legislation as Sarah’s Act, but its official name is the Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Act 2015 (SARAH Act).
The Act was introduced because there was growing concern that fear of being sued was discouraging people from helping others.
Parliament recognised that individuals should not be deterred from acting heroically simply because they feared legal consequences if things did not go perfectly.
Rather than creating an entirely new legal defence, the Act requires courts to consider the circumstances surrounding a person’s actions when deciding negligence claims.
Specifically, the courts should consider whether someone was:
- Acting for the benefit of society.
- Acting responsibly.
- Acting heroically by intervening in an emergency.
The legislation sends an important message:
People who step forward to help others should be encouraged, not discouraged.
Why Is It Called Sarah’s Act?
Despite the common nickname, the legislation is not named after an individual called Sarah.
The word “SARAH” simply comes from the initials of the legislation:
Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Act.
The acronym was intentionally memorable, making it easier for the public to recognise and remember the purpose of the Act.
Does Sarah’s Act Mean You Cannot Be Sued?
This is an important distinction.
Sarah’s Act does not make people completely immune from legal action.
Anyone can bring a legal claim.
However, the Act requires the courts to take into account the fact that someone was trying to help during an emergency.
In practice, this means the court considers:
- the emergency situation
- the limited information available at the time
- the pressure the person was under
- whether they acted responsibly
- whether they were acting to benefit another person
This provides reassurance that genuine rescuers will be judged fairly.
What Does “Acting Reasonably” Mean?
One of the key legal principles surrounding first aid is whether someone acted reasonably.
Reasonable does not mean perfect.
It means behaving in a way that another sensible person might behave in the same circumstances.
For example:
A person who calls 999 immediately, starts CPR because someone has stopped breathing and follows the guidance of the emergency call handler is acting reasonably.
Likewise, someone who applies pressure to a catastrophic bleed while waiting for the ambulance is acting reasonably.
The courts understand that emergencies are stressful, fast-moving and unpredictable.
Nobody expects members of the public to perform with the same level of expertise as doctors or paramedics.
What If I Break Someone’s Ribs During CPR?
This is probably the biggest fear people express during CPR training.
The answer often surprises them.
Broken ribs can happen during effective CPR.
This is because chest compressions need to be delivered firmly and deeply enough to circulate blood around the body.
Healthcare professionals break ribs.
Paramedics break ribs.
Doctors break ribs.
Experienced first aid instructors have seen it happen.
Breaking a rib does not mean CPR has been performed incorrectly.
In many cases, it means compressions were deep enough to give the casualty the best possible chance of survival.
Consider the alternative.
Without CPR, someone in cardiac arrest is clinically dead.
The priority is restoring blood flow to the brain and vital organs.
A broken rib can heal.
A heart that never restarts cannot.
This is why first aid trainers often say:
“It’s better to have a broken rib than no heartbeat.”
What If I Make Things Worse?
Many people worry about causing further injury.
In reality, if someone has stopped breathing, has no pulse, is choking or is suffering catastrophic bleeding, doing nothing is usually the far greater risk.
First aid is about preserving life until professional help arrives.
No one expects perfection.
Emergency call handlers can guide you through CPR, using an AED or assisting someone who is choking.
Simply following their instructions can make an enormous difference.
Remember, emergency services would almost always rather arrive to someone who received first aid than someone who received none.
Can You Be Sued for Using an AED?
Another common myth is that people can be sued if they use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) incorrectly.
Modern AEDs are specifically designed to be used by members of the public.
They provide spoken instructions.
They analyse the casualty’s heart rhythm.
They decide whether a shock is needed.
If a shock is not appropriate, the AED will not allow one to be delivered.
You cannot accidentally shock someone whose heart does not require it.
This technology has been developed specifically to make defibrillation safe for anyone to use.
The sooner an AED is used during cardiac arrest, the greater the chance of survival.
What About Choking?
Imagine someone in a restaurant suddenly clutches their throat.
Would you hesitate because you fear legal consequences?
Hopefully not.
Performing back blows and abdominal thrusts in accordance with recognised first aid guidance gives the casualty the best chance of survival.
Although injuries can occasionally occur, they are generally considered an acceptable risk when compared with the potentially fatal consequences of complete airway obstruction.
Again, the law considers whether you acted reasonably while trying to save someone’s life.
Severe Bleeding and Tourniquets
In recent years, awareness of catastrophic bleeding has increased significantly.
Prompt bleeding control can prevent someone from bleeding to death before emergency services arrive.
Applying direct pressure, wound packing where appropriate or using a tourniquet when indicated may save a life.
These interventions may cause discomfort or even tissue damage.
However, uncontrolled catastrophic bleeding is life-threatening.
The aim is always to preserve life first.
Do You Need the Casualty’s Permission?
Whenever possible, yes.
If someone is conscious, introduce yourself and ask if you can help.
For example:
“I’m first aid trained. Is it okay if I help you?”
However, emergencies are not always that straightforward.
If someone is unconscious, confused or unable to communicate, the law recognises the principle of implied consent.
This assumes that a reasonable person would want life-saving treatment if they were unable to ask for it themselves.
Without implied consent, emergency medical care would be impossible.
When Should You Not Give First Aid?
Helping others does not mean putting yourself in danger.
Before approaching any casualty, always assess the situation.
Consider hazards such as:
- Fire.
- Live electricity.
- Moving traffic.
- Violent behaviour.
- Dangerous chemicals.
- Unstable structures.
- Flood water.
- Gas leaks.
If the scene is unsafe, call the emergency services and wait until it is safe to approach.
Remember the first rule of first aid:
Do not become the second casualty.
What If You Are a Workplace First Aider?
Workplace first aiders sometimes worry that they are more vulnerable to legal action because they have received formal training.
In reality, training is designed to help you provide safe, effective care within your level of competence.
Employers also have responsibilities under health and safety legislation to provide appropriate first aid arrangements.
Following your training, using recognised procedures and documenting incidents appropriately all help demonstrate that you acted responsibly.
The Importance of Staying Within Your Competence
One important principle taught on every quality first aid course is to work within your level of training.
This means:
- Do not claim skills you do not possess.
- Use recognised first aid techniques.
- Follow current guidance.
- Call for professional help promptly.
Being first aid trained does not make you a doctor.
You are there to provide immediate assistance until emergency services arrive.
Common Myths About Giving First Aid
Let’s address some of the biggest misconceptions.
Myth 1: I’ll definitely get sued.
Reality: Successful legal action against someone acting reasonably and in good faith is extremely rare.
Myth 2: If I break ribs, I’ve done CPR incorrectly.
Reality: Rib fractures can occur during effective CPR and are an accepted risk when trying to save someone’s life.
Myth 3: Only qualified first aiders should help.
Reality: Anyone can provide lifesaving assistance during an emergency.
Myth 4: AEDs are dangerous.
Reality: AEDs are designed to prevent inappropriate shocks and guide users through every step.
Myth 5: If I make a mistake, I’ll automatically be found negligent.
Reality: The courts consider whether your actions were reasonable in the circumstances.
Why First Aid Training Still Matters
Although the law supports people who help in emergencies, confidence comes from knowledge.
First aid training reduces hesitation.
It teaches people:
- how to recognise emergencies
- when to call 999
- how to perform CPR
- how to use an AED
- how to manage choking
- how to control severe bleeding
- how to place someone in the recovery position
- how to communicate effectively with emergency services
Perhaps most importantly, training replaces fear with confidence.
Instead of wondering what to do, trained individuals are more likely to step forward and help.
Real Lives Are Saved Every Day
Across the UK, members of the public save lives every day.
Parents perform CPR on their children.
Teachers use AEDs in schools.
Colleagues respond to cardiac arrests in the workplace.
Shoppers help strangers who collapse.
Construction workers stop catastrophic bleeding following serious accidents.
These people are not superheroes.
They are ordinary individuals who chose to act rather than stand back.
Many later say exactly the same thing:
“I’m just glad I knew what to do.”
Why Employers Should Invest in First Aid Training
For employers, first aid training is about far more than legal compliance.
A well-trained workforce creates a safer environment for everyone.
Employees gain confidence to:
- respond quickly during emergencies
- protect colleagues and visitors
- reduce panic
- communicate effectively with emergency services
- support casualties until professional help arrives
For schools, nurseries and childcare settings, trained staff provide reassurance to parents and help create a culture where children’s safety comes first.
For businesses, having confident first aiders can make a life-saving difference while also demonstrating a genuine commitment to employee wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be sued for performing CPR?
It is extremely unlikely if you acted in good faith and followed recognised first aid principles.
Can I use an AED without training?
Yes. AEDs are designed for public use and provide clear voice prompts throughout the process.
What if the casualty dies?
Sadly, not every emergency has a positive outcome. If you acted reasonably and with the intention of helping, the law recognises the circumstances under which you acted.
Should I still help if I’m not confident?
If it is safe to do so, call 999 immediately and follow the emergency call handler’s instructions. They can talk you through lifesaving interventions such as CPR while help is on the way.
The Bigger Picture
Sarah’s Act reflects something important about society.
It recognises that we should encourage kindness, responsibility and courage rather than punish those who step forward to help.
Emergencies rarely happen at convenient times.
They occur at work, in schools, supermarkets, parks, sporting events, family gatherings and on busy streets.
When they happen, the first person beside the casualty is rarely a paramedic.
More often than not, it is an ordinary member of the public.
That person could be you.
Your willingness to act could mean the difference between life and death.
Final Thoughts
Fear is a powerful emotion.
It can make us hesitate, doubt ourselves and question whether we should get involved.
However, when someone collapses in front of you, chokes while eating, suffers a catastrophic bleed or goes into cardiac arrest, the greatest danger is often not making a mistake; it is doing nothing.
Sarah’s Act was introduced to reassure people that the law recognises those who act responsibly and heroically in an emergency. While no legislation can prevent someone from attempting to bring a legal claim, the UK legal system understands that emergencies require quick decisions, often made under immense pressure and with limited information.
If you act in good faith, stay within your level of competence, follow recognised first aid guidance and genuinely try to help another person, you are doing exactly what society hopes you will do.
The best way to overcome the fear of “what if?” is through high-quality first aid training.
Training doesn’t just teach practical skills; it builds confidence, improves decision-making and prepares you to respond calmly when every second matters.
One day, the life you save could belong to a work colleague, a neighbour, a friend, a family member or even a complete stranger.
Don’t let fear of being sued stop you from giving someone their best chance of survival.
Because when an emergency happens, doing something could make all the difference.
Our current first aid courses;
Our Emergency and First Aid at Work courses are for those working in an office, factory, warehouse, manufacturing or on a building site. These courses will set you up to know exactly what to do in an emergency. Completing our courses will help you understand the hazards and risks in your workplace to therefore prevent accidents.
Apprentices, staff who are unlikely to be left alone with children, and lunchtime supervisors are all candidates for our Emergency Paediatric First Aid Training. Our one-day course includes roles and responsibilities of a first aider, first aid kits, accident reporting, reasons of a life-threatening condition, CPR, defibrillator, causes of unconsciousness and recovery position, choking, bleeding, burns, and minor injuries.
Our Paediatric First Aid Training 2-day course includes all elements of the one-day first course including; broken bones, spinal injuries, head injuries, slings, sprains and strains, diabetes, febrile convulsions, hypothermia, hyperthermia, epilepsy, poisons, eye injuries, allergies and anaphylaxis, and asthma.
This course is ideal for those working alone with children, whether you are a Teacher or Teaching Assistant working in the Early Years or a childminder. Our Paediatric courses are fully accredited. We have open courses running at our Brownhills Centre or we can come to your setting.
Additionally, if you prefer to have a short session with us and complete a bespoke parents/grandparents course; our Parent’s first aid course is for you. These start from 2 hours up to 4 hours. Can include any modules of your choice, but we will cover: reasons of life-threatening conditions, CPR, Defibrillator, unconsciousness, recovery, choking and gagging, burns, and minor illnesses, including dangers within the home.
Our courses provide you with the peace of mind that you’ll know what to do in the event of an emergency, such as illnesses like asthma. Furthermore, getting first aid training will give you the skill set of knowing exactly what to do if your child, friend, or work colleague suffers from an injury or life threatening condition. Never put yourself in a situation where you’re thinking, “How to recognise a cardiac arrest” Get First Aid Trained Today!
If you have any questions about this blog, we are happy to help. Can You Be Sued for Giving First Aid? – if you want to know how, book onto an annual first aid course with us. Here is the link to our upcoming courses. https://www.hmbtrainingservices.co.uk/courses
For further enquiries, please call us on: 01543 453338 or email on info@hmbtrainingservices.co.uk
