The Gauteng Department of Health has noted with serious concern posters circulating on social media that request members of the public to pay to attend the first responder training programme.

The department has advised the public that first-responder training offered by the department’s Lebone College of Emergency Care is provided free of charge to all residents of Gauteng.

The department stated that any individual or organisation charging community members for this training while using the Department’s name is doing so without authorisation.

The department has cautioned the public to remain vigilant against scammers and verify the legitimacy of any training invitation or poster through official channels before attending.

“The First Responder Training programme is an initiative of the Department aimed at equipping communities with essential life-saving skills.

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“These include performing CPR, assisting individuals experiencing involuntary violence, managing critical injuries such as stabs and gunshot wounds, responding to falls and treating sprains, strains and burn cases,” said the health department.

According to the department, since the relaunch of the programme in 2023, it has prioritised training community members from disadvantaged areas, including townships, informal settlements, and hostels (TISH).

To date, more than 12 000 people have been trained to respond swiftly and effectively to unforeseen emergency situations.

The department emphasised that it is the sole authorised organiser of this initiative. No other entity is permitted to conduct the programme or charge participants any fees for participating.

The department warned the public to immediately report scams or anyone demanding payment for this training to Lebone College of Emergency Care on (012) 356 8000 or email: leboneenquiries@gauteng.gov.za

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