More than 40,000 people experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the UK each year, yet fewer than one in ten survive. With around 80% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests taking place in the home, it is vital that we empower and equip the next generation with the confidence to act when it matters most.
That is why we are calling on schools across the UK to help give young people the confidence to recognise a cardiac arrest, call for help, start CPR and use a defibrillator.
Restart A Heart Live is a free, live stream event, that brings CPR and defibrillator awareness directly into classrooms to give pupils the chance to learn skills that could one day save a life. No specialist equipment is needed. participants can simply practise along using a cushion, folded jacket or teddy bear.
Restart A Heart Live aims to reach 1 million people with vital CPR skills by 2027, helping to create a nation of lifesaver and NHS Charities Together is supporting the 2026 event as part of an alliance of NHS charities, ambulance services, NHS trusts and partner organisations working together to improve survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest across the UK.
Schools can choose from a range of live sessions throughout the day on 1 October, or register to access a recording afterwards if they cannot join live. The event is open to primary and secondary schools, colleges, workplaces, community groups, families and individuals.
So, if you are a teacher, school leader, parent, or community leader please encourage your school to get involved. Let’s give the next generation the knowledge and confidence they need to become lifesavers.
Schools can register for free at www.restartaheart.live.
