Immediate Life Support bridges basic CPR and advanced life support - widely used across acute and community clinical services.
ILS is commonly required for staff who may lead or contribute to emergency responses before a full arrest team arrives. Delivery should follow recognised Resuscitation Council UK ILS standards where claimed.
What is Immediate Life Support (ILS)?
A structured course covering ABCDE assessment, CPR/AED, airway management, peri-arrest rhythms recognition at the appropriate level, and team roles in deteriorating patients.
Typical duration: Typically one day (confirm provider format)
Certificate life: Often valid around 1 year - check RCUK / employer policy
Who usually needs this training?
- Hospital and community clinical staff
- Dental teams providing treatment under sedation pathways that require ILS
- Urgent care and ambulance support roles
Your options when arranging ILS training
Arranging ILS:
- Closed ILS course for a clinical cohort
- Places on provider-run ILS days
- Recertification for staff with expiring ILS
What to look for in a ILS trainer or training company
- Instructors with appropriate clinical and teaching credentials
- Genuine ILS resources and assessment standards
- Clear statement of the exact award being issued
“ILS-style” awareness is not the same as a recognised ILS course - verify the qualification title in writing.
Authoritative guidance
Check primary sources before you buy - FlexMed helps you hire trainers, but course requirements come from regulators, statutory frameworks and professional bodies:
How FlexMed helps you find the right trainer
FlexMed is a UK marketplace that connects organisations with freelance trainers and training companies. Instead of cold-calling providers or waiting on generic quote forms, you can post what you need once and compare responses from people who already deliver ILS.
- Create a free organisation account - register as a client organisation if you need training delivered for your staff, or as a training company if you need freelance trainer cover for a course you already run.
- Post a clear request or job - include the course type (Immediate Life Support (ILS)), date(s), postcode area, headcount, venue type, and whether you need equipment supplied.
- Review profiles and credentials - check bios, verification documents, equipment flags, and ratings before you award.
- Compare quotes and message - ask about awarding organisation, assessment method, blended learning options, and what is included in the price.
Trainers and providers looking for work can also browse open jobs on FlexMed.
Practical tips before you book
- Complete a first-aid / training needs assessment so you book the right level - not just the cheapest day course. The HSE first aid needs assessment guidance is the usual starting point for workplaces.
- Confirm whether you need regulated qualifications, in-date certificates, or specific awarding bodies for your sector.
- Share access details, parking, and any learner needs early so the session runs smoothly.
- Ask who issues the certificates and how quickly learners receive them after assessment.
Post your ILS requirement on FlexMed with preferred dates and staff group to attract suitably qualified instructors.