GRANDPARENTS in Swindon who regularly look after their young grandchildren are being encouraged to learn life saving skills to help prepare for an emergency.

The British Red Cross two-hour first aid course is designed specifically for older carers.

It uses the Everyday First Aid approach – the charity’s simplest method of teaching life-saving skills – and gives participants the knowledge and confidence to respond if a child or baby starts choking, becomes unconscious or swallows something harmful.

Jo Riches, the community-based first aid co-ordinator in Wiltshire, said: “We felt it was important to hold a course specifically for grandparents as more and more are responsible for caring for their grandchildren while parents return to work.

“Looking after children is a big responsibility and we hope by inviting a group of grandparents to learn the skills together, they will see just how easy the techniques are.

“The training is very relaxed and takes place with a group of like-minded people. Participants don’t need to be physically fit as the training can be adapted to suit everyone’s needs.”

The next course takes place between 11am and 1pm tomorrow at Westlea Fire Station and costs £15. To book a place call 01452 726661 or email ttibbs@redcross.org.uk.