Hundreds of cardiac arrest witnesses supported by Basildon Hospital app
RescQ has assisted over 260 bystanders in its first year
A support service launched in Essex has provided essential help to over 260 witnesses of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) during its first year of operation.
RescQ, created at Basildon Hospital’s Essex Cardiothoracic Centre, offers immediate aid to those who witness or respond to cardiac emergencies, whether through performing CPR, calling for emergency services, or being present during the resuscitation efforts.
Professor Thomas Keeble, founder of RescQ and Clinical Lead for cardiac arrest services in Essex, emphasised the importance of recognising the needs of those who witness these incidents.
He explained, “People who witness, or take action, when they see someone in distress, play a critical role in the chain of survival when it comes to OHCA, but their needs have often been overlooked.”
The app serves as a support tool integrated within emergency response efforts, allowing medical staff to register witnesses at the scene and offer an on-site debrief.
Through a secure digital link, witnesses gain access to the RescQ website, which provides practical advice, reassurance, and shared experiences from others in similar situations.
The website has received over 6,000 views since its launch, with users offering positive feedback on the resources and video content available.
For witnesses requiring further assistance, RescQ also provides personalised follow-up via a dedicated liaison officer.
A bystander shared, “I kept replaying the scene over and over. I didn’t realise how much it had affected me until I spoke to someone. Having that support made a real difference.”
The service was developed with contributions from the East of England Ambulance Service, Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, East Anglian Air Ambulance, clinicians, psychologists, survivors, and bystanders, ensuring its approach reflects real-world experiences.
Dr Uzma Sajjad, developmental lead and liaison officer for bystander support for RescQ, stated, “Supporting those who step forward to help is an essential part of saving lives.”
"As RescQ enters its second year, we aim to expand the service across the wider East of England, making support available to more communities.”