An unconscious reply from Arriva Trains Wales

Hard to tell if he got the point about the Arriva Staff being unwilling to move a casualty which they fully understood to be at risk of chocking because of his position between the seats pushing his head forward and potentially leading to a blocked airway. This is not really about advanced 1st aid training or equipment on the train, its about allowing staff to do what their common sense tells them is the right thing to do.

Staff on the train 10 out of 10. Arriva management guidance 4 out of 10.

If the poor unfortunate had died from chocking, then how would a coroner view Arriva management guidelines to its staff not to move a casualty with a restricted airway?

Dr Clive King

03 May 2011

Your Case Reference: ATW-110330-BDV

Dear Dr King

Thank you for contacting us regarding the incident that took place on the last service from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth on 29th March. I was sorry to hear that a customer had become unconscious on our train and needed attention.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the assistance you provided our staff on this occasion as it was well received. It was also good of you to let us know how well you thought the conductor had dealt with the situation and a copy of your correspondence has been forwarded to her direct manager to record and to pass on.

Our train crew only receive basic first aid training and the equipment provided on board the train is very much the same. They are not required to perform more extensive aspects of first aid within their role and are advised to contact our main control in these incidents so an ambulance can be arranged to meet the train.

I do however take on board your detailed account of what could have potentially gone wrong and I have now passed your comments on to our more senior managers for consideration.

Thank you again for taking the time to write to us with your kind words regarding the conductor and thankfully this situation did not escalate to something more serious. If I can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Yours sincerely

Mark Davies

Customer Relations Advisor

Arriva Trains Wales