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Information · Industry bodies

International Guidelines (ILCOR/ERC)

The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) is an international organisation made up of resuscitation councils from around the world, including the European Resuscitation Council, American Heart Association, and Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK).

ILCOR reviews the latest scientific evidence on resuscitation, first aid, and emergency cardiovascular care through a continuous evidence evaluation process. Its findings are used to produce international consensus recommendations that help ensure first aid and resuscitation practices are based on the most current research.

The European Resuscitation Council (ERC) is the European body responsible for developing resuscitation and first aid guidelines for use across Europe. The ERC uses ILCOR’s international evidence reviews to create practical clinical guidelines and training recommendations suitable for European healthcare systems and first aid providers.

In the UK, organisations such as Resuscitation Council UK and awarding bodies use ERC and ILCOR guidance to inform national first aid and CPR guidelines, helping ensure that UK training and practice remain evidence-based, consistent, and aligned with international best practice.

FAQs and Resources

Does the Resuscitation Council UK always adopt ERC guidelines, or are there differences for UK practice?

UK guidelines are based on ILCOR evidence reviews and ERC guidance, but are adapted for UK practice. RCUK uses international research and European recommendations as the foundation for UK first aid and resuscitation guidance, while making adjustments where necessary to reflect UK legislation, NHS systems, safeguarding requirements, and training standards. This ensures that UK guidelines remain evidence-based whilst also being appropriate and practical for use within the UK healthcare and first aid

How often are RCUK guidelines updated?

Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) generally publishes major guideline updates every 5 years, in line with the publication cycle of ILCOR and the ERC. These updates are based on the latest international evidence reviews and are then adapted for UK practice.

However, RCUK may also publish interim statements, practice guidance, or focused updates between the 5-year releases if new evidence, legislation, or changes in UK healthcare practice make this necessary.

How can I make sure I'm notified about RCUK updates?

First Aid Verified will always do it’s best to ensure you receive the latest updates if you sign up to our newsletter or you can get updates directly from the RCUK. Scroll to the bottom of their home page to sign up.

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