Children in Swindon have become 'mini medics' in an Amazon initiative to teach CPR to young people.

The learning project Mini Medics is a basic first aid course designed for children between the ages of seven and 16 which teaches them basic first aid, CPR and health knowledge.

The children of Amazon employees in Swindon became the first local children to try it out at the Amazon Fulfilment Centre warehouse on Laines Way, and it marked the second time the course has been delivered at any of Amazon’s fulfilment centres.

Organised by operations manager Erika Smith and the Families at Amazon affinity group, the training ran over two sessions and was a huge success.

It comes after research from the British Heart Foundation found that over 23 million UK adults don't know how to give CRR.

"The young learners that attended have gained vital skills that will help them in their personal development and provide them with a great sense of independence, confidence and reassurance that they know how to act as first responders should the time ever come," said David Tindal, General Manager at the Amazon Fulfilment Centre in Swindon.

“I want to extend a special thanks to Erika and Stefan for facilitating Mini Medics training at our fulfilment centre."

Children were thrilled with the new skills they learned at the Swindon Amazon warehouseChildren were thrilled with the new skills they learned at the Swindon Amazon warehouse (Image: Amazon) Stefan Haila, who provided the sessions, added: “The children who attended our Mini Medics events were enthusiastic, conscientious and keen learners.

"I had a great time teaching them about first aid. I think it’s important for young people to have basic medical skills, as it may just save a life.”

Amazon has 13 affinity groups, also known as employee resource groups, and these are to encourage diversity and inclusivity while also bringing employees and communities together.

Their latest 'Mini Medics' initiative in Swindon is just one of the ways that these groups has pledged to support young people and families.

Over 23 million UK adults don't know how to give CPROver 23 million UK adults don't know how to give CPR (Image: Amazon) The company has also supported more than 700,000 students across the UK with free STEM education programmes through Amazon Future Engineer and helps community organisations transport meals and other essentials to families in need through its pro bono logistics programme, Amazon Local Good.

Amazon is also partners with Comic Relief, having raised over £4.8 million to fund support projects across the UK, and is the official home of the charity's iconic Red Nose.

Employees at the Swindon warehouse say they hope this is only the start of their work in the community to support young children and families.

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