2060
6801
Clear, factual information for nurseries, preschools, childminders, early years professionals and families.
LifeVac: Does NOT replace first aid. It provides an additional
option when established choking procedures have failed or
cannot be performed.
At The Oliver Steeper Foundation, our mission is to improve children's safety by providing LifeVac anti-choking devices to early years settings and raising awareness of choking emergencies.
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We recognise the enormous responsibility placed upon nurseries, preschools, childminders and early years practitioners. Parents trust childcare professionals with their children's safety every day, and having effective emergency procedures, appropriate training and suitable equipment is an important part of that responsibility.
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LifeVac is a regulated, non-invasive medical device designed to assist in removing an airway obstruction when established choking first aid procedures have been attempted unsuccessfully.
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LifeVac provides an additional emergency option when conventional choking first aid has failed, allowing trained individuals another opportunity to attempt to clear an obstructed airway.
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The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regulates medical devices in the United Kingdom and has confirmed that voluntary restrictions previously placed on LifeVac's wider availability were lifted in June 2023.
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The Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) has also clarified its position regarding suction-based airway clearance devices, confirming that it remains neither for nor against their use, pending further evidence review.
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For childcare providers, it is important to understand that LifeVac can legally be purchased, kept within a setting and used for its intended purpose, subject to applicable requirements and the manufacturer's instructions.
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We have prepared this information to help childcare professionals and families understand LifeVac's regulatory position, its intended use, the training available and the benefits of having additional emergency equipment readily accessible.
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Our objective is simple: to provide clear, accurate and reliable information that helps childcare professionals make informed decisions about the safety of the children in their care.
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Contents​
1. Where Does LifeVac Fit into a Childcare Setting's First Aid Procedures?
2. Why Doesn't My First Aid Training Provider Recommend LifeVac?
3. What Does the Resuscitation Council UK Say About LifeVac?
4. What Is Ofsted's Position on LifeVac in Early Years Settings?
5. Is LifeVac Legal and Regulated in the UK?
6. Will My Childcare Insurance Cover the Use of LifeVac?
7. How Does LifeVac Work, and What Safety Features Does It Have?
8. What Training Is Available for Nursery Staff and Childminders?
9. Is LifeVac Being Used by Other Childcare Providers?
10. Is LifeVac Being Used Within the NHS?
11. Has LifeVac Been Used Successfully in Choking Emergencies?
12. Beware of Counterfeit and Unbranded Anti-Choking Devices
13. What Should a Childcare Setting Consider Before Introducing LifeVac?
14. Why The Oliver Steeper Foundation Supports Access to LifeVac
15. Our Final Message to Nurseries, Preschools, Childminders and Parents
1. Where Does LifeVac Fit into a Childcare Setting's First Aid Procedures?
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LifeVac is designed to provide an additional intervention when established choking first aid has been attempted and has not successfully cleared an airway obstruction.
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The standard response to a choking emergency remains based on recognised Basic Life Support procedures, as taught through paediatric first aid training.
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For babies under one year, these include back blows and chest thrusts. For children over one year, the recommended interventions include back blows and abdominal thrusts.
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In a serious choking emergency, practitioners should summon emergency assistance promptly, follow their paediatric first aid training and commence CPR without delay if the child becomes unconscious.
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LifeVac has a specific and valuable purpose: to provide an additional method of attempting to remove an airway obstruction when established choking first aid has been unsuccessful.
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The MHRA recognises that airway clearance devices such as LifeVac are intended for use following unsuccessful established Basic Life Support interventions.
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For childcare providers, LifeVac can therefore be incorporated into existing emergency arrangements as an additional piece of equipment.
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It is intended to complement the skills and knowledge that childcare practitioners already possess, providing another option in circumstances where conventional choking interventions have failed to resolve the emergency.
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In practical terms, staff should immediately follow their recognised choking response, summon emergency services and, if the obstruction remains despite appropriate first aid attempts, may use LifeVac in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and their setting's emergency arrangements.
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Its use must not delay CPR or other essential emergency interventions.
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First aid comes first. LifeVac provides an additional opportunity to attempt to clear the airway when those procedures have been unsuccessful.
2. Why Doesn't My First Aid Training Provider Recommend LifeVac?​
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This is one of the questions we receive most frequently from nursery managers, preschool practitioners and childminders.
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Paediatric first aid training is essential for ensuring that childcare professionals can respond appropriately to choking emergencies. These courses teach established emergency procedures, including back blows, chest thrusts, abdominal thrusts and CPR, in accordance with recognised first aid guidance and the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
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LifeVac is a regulated medical device designed to provide an additional intervention when these established choking procedures have been attempted unsuccessfully.
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Unfortunately, we are increasingly aware of childcare providers being given incorrect or misleading information about LifeVac by some first aid trainers. This includes claims that the device is illegal, that Ofsted prohibits its use, that it cannot be used in a nursery, or that its use would automatically invalidate a setting's insurance.
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These claims are not supported as general statements by the current UK regulatory position and may reflect misinformation, outdated knowledge or insufficient research into LifeVac, its intended purpose and the relevant regulatory guidance.
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While we fully respect the important role of first aid training organisations, we believe that professionals delivering safety-critical training have a responsibility to ensure that the information they provide is accurate, current and supported by reliable evidence.
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This includes understanding the distinction between established first aid procedures, medical device regulation and the clinical position of the Resuscitation Council UK. In August 2026, the Resuscitation Council UK confirmed that it makes no recommendation either for or against the use of suction-based airway clearance devices, including LifeVac, while further evidence is reviewed.
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This is a neutral position. It should not be presented to childcare providers as a legal prohibition or a statement that the device cannot be used.
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Equally, an individual trainer or training organisation may choose not to recommend a device because of its assessment of the available clinical evidence. That is a different matter from incorrectly claiming that the device is unlawful, unregulated or expressly prohibited.
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The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regulates medical devices in the UK and confirmed that restrictions on LifeVac's wider availability were lifted in June 2023. First aid training organisations and the MHRA have different responsibilities. The clinical recommendations or teaching policies of an individual first aid provider do not determine the legal status of a regulated medical device.
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We are concerned that inaccurate statements made during first aid courses may unnecessarily discourage childcare settings from considering an additional emergency option, particularly when those statements are presented as official regulatory guidance.
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At The Oliver Steeper Foundation, we encourage childcare providers to seek information directly from the MHRA, RCUK and the manufacturer, rather than relying solely on individual interpretations or opinions.
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We also encourage first aid trainers to familiarise themselves with the current regulatory position, the manufacturer's intended use, published research and reported clinical experiences before making definitive statements about LifeVac.
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For early years providers, the key facts are straightforward:
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Paediatric first aid training remains essential and must always form the foundation of a setting's emergency response.
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LifeVac is designed to provide an additional means of attempting to clear an airway obstruction after established choking first aid has failed.
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LifeVac is a regulated medical device legally available in the United Kingdom.
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The Resuscitation Council UK maintains a neutral position, neither recommending nor opposing suction-based airway clearance devices.
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Dedicated LifeVac training and familiarisation resources are available to childcare professionals.
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A first aid trainer's personal opinion or organisational policy should not be confused with official regulatory requirements.
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We believe that childcare professionals deserve clear, factual and up-to-date information when making decisions about children's safety. There is a significant difference between a first aid trainer choosing not to recommend LifeVac and incorrectly informing a childcare provider that the device is illegal, prohibited or cannot be used.
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Our position is that these discussions should be based on verified facts, current regulations and an accurate understanding of LifeVac's intended role as an additional intervention following unsuccessful established choking first aid.
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Ultimately, the priority must always be ensuring that those responsible for children's care have access to accurate information, appropriate training and the resources needed to respond to a choking emergency.
3. What Does the Resuscitation Council UK Say About LifeVac?​
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The Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) publishes national guidance covering resuscitation and the established management of choking emergencies.
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Its guidance plays an important role in the first aid training delivered throughout the United Kingdom.
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In August 2026, RCUK published an updated position statement concerning suction-based airway clearance devices.
RCUK confirmed that it makes no recommendation either for or against the use of suction-based airway clearance devices such as LifeVac.
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This is the organisation's current neutral position while further evidence is considered through the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR).
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RCUK continues to emphasise that established choking first aid procedures should be the first response to an airway obstruction.
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This is entirely consistent with LifeVac's intended purpose. LifeVac is designed to provide an additional means of attempting to clear an airway obstruction when established choking first aid has been unsuccessful.
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The distinction between clinical first aid guidance and medical device regulation is important.
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RCUK provides clinical guidance on resuscitation and emergency treatment, while the MHRA oversees the regulatory framework governing medical devices in the United Kingdom.
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For childcare professionals, the key points are:
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RCUK's position on LifeVac and other suction-based airway clearance devices is neutral.
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RCUK makes no recommendation either for or against their use.
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Established choking first aid remains the primary emergency response.
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LifeVac is designed for use when those established interventions have been attempted unsuccessfully.
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Genuine LifeVac devices are legally available in the United Kingdom and regulated under the applicable medical device framework.
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RCUK's position is clear: it remains neither for nor against LifeVac. This is separate from LifeVac's legal availability as a regulated medical device.
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This distinction allows childcare providers to understand both the clinical guidance and regulatory facts when considering additional emergency equipment.
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Read the Resuscitation Council UK's official position statement
4. What Is Ofsted's Position on LifeVac in Early Years Settings?​​
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Ofsted is responsible for inspecting and regulating registered childcare provision in England, ensuring that providers meet the applicable statutory requirements.
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The Early Years Foundation Stage sets out the standards that nurseries, preschools and childminders must meet, including requirements relating to safeguarding, supervision, paediatric first aid and children's health and safety. Childcare settings may consider additional emergency equipment as part of their approach to meeting these responsibilities.
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There is no general Ofsted prohibition on childcare settings possessing a genuine LifeVac device. Ofsted assesses whether providers meet the relevant childcare requirements. The regulation of medical devices is the responsibility of the MHRA.
A childcare provider choosing to introduce LifeVac should continue to maintain all existing first aid qualifications, emergency procedures, risk assessments and safeguarding arrangements.
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The Foundation is also aware of published Ofsted inspection reports that have referred positively to the availability of LifeVac devices as part of a setting's broader emergency arrangements.
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These references demonstrate that some childcare providers have incorporated LifeVac into their approach to emergency preparedness.
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For nurseries, preschools and childminders, LifeVac can be included within existing first aid and emergency policies, ensuring that staff understand its intended role and can access the equipment promptly when appropriate.
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Introducing LifeVac provides settings with the opportunity to consider an additional measure when reviewing how they prepare for choking emergencies.
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LifeVac can be maintained as supplementary emergency equipment while childcare providers continue to fulfil their existing EYFS and first aid responsibilities.
5. Is LifeVac Legal and Regulated in the UK?​​
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Yes. Genuine LifeVac devices are legally available in the United Kingdom and are regulated as Class I medical devices.
LifeVac Europe Ltd is the UK manufacturer of the device, which is registered with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
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Genuine LifeVac devices carry the applicable medical device conformity marking and are supplied with instructions covering their intended use.
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In June 2023, the voluntary restrictions that previously limited LifeVac's wider availability were lifted, enabling the device to be made available to the wider UK market. This includes members of the public, businesses, childcare providers and other organisations.
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The MHRA's published information recognises that airway clearance devices are intended for use following unsuccessful established Basic Life Support interventions.
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For nurseries, preschools and childminders, this establishes an important distinction between the initial emergency response and the intended role of LifeVac.
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LifeVac can legally be used in the United Kingdom for its intended purpose following unsuccessful established choking first aid, provided its use complies with the applicable requirements and manufacturer's instructions. As a Class I medical device, LifeVac is subject to the applicable UK medical device regulatory framework. Registration and conformity requirements are separate from the independent clinical evaluation of device effectiveness.
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Providers should ensure that genuine equipment is obtained from a reputable supplier, that staff are familiar with its operation and that the device is incorporated appropriately into their emergency procedures.
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LifeVac's legal availability provides childcare settings and families with the opportunity to consider an additional airway clearance device when preparing for a choking emergency.
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6. Will My Childcare Insurance Cover the Use of LifeVac?
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Insurance is an important consideration when introducing any additional emergency equipment into a childcare setting.
The Oliver Steeper Foundation has sought clarification on this subject to help childcare professionals understand the insurance arrangements that may apply.
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In December 2025, specialist childcare insurance provider Morton Michel supplied a written statement to the Foundation concerning the use of anti-choking devices such as LifeVac.
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Morton Michel confirmed that cover can apply where the device has been purchased from a reputable UK supplier, is used as a last-resort intervention in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, and is operated by someone with suitable training and an understanding of its intended use.
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Such cover remains subject to the policy's normal terms and conditions.
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This confirmation provides useful reassurance for early years providers considering LifeVac as part of their emergency equipment.
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LifeVac Europe Ltd also maintains manufacturer insurance arrangements, including product liability insurance.
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Because individual insurance policies and their conditions can vary, we encourage childcare providers to contact their own insurer and obtain written confirmation of the position under their particular policy.
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When speaking with an insurer, providers can explain that LifeVac is a genuine, regulated medical device intended for use after established choking first aid has been unsuccessful.
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LifeVac can be included within a childcare setting's insured emergency arrangements, subject to the applicable policy terms and conditions.
​​​A formal statement provided to The Oliver Steeper Foundation by Morton Michel, a specialist childcare insurer, in December 2025 confirms:
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“Morton Michel confirms that the use of anti-choking devices such as LifeVac is covered under our childcare insurance policies. Provided the device is purchased from a reputable UK supplier. Cover applies where the device is used as a last-resort intervention, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and by individuals who have received suitable training and understand both the correct use and limitations of the device.
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Where these conditions are met, the use of LifeVac is treated as an insured activity under the policy, subject to the standard terms and conditions of cover.”
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It is also worth noting that Ofsted inspection reports have referenced the presence of LifeVac devices positively, commending providers for ensuring accessible emergency safety equipment.​
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LifeVac's Full Product And Public Liability Insurance
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In addition, LifeVac Europe Limited, as a medical device manufacturer, maintains full product liability and public liability insurance that extends protection to end users when the device is used in accordance with instructions.​​​
7. How Does LifeVac Work, and What Safety Features Does It Have?
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ifeVac is a manually operated, non-invasive airway clearance device designed to assist in removing an obstruction from the airway using suction. The device consists of a plunger mechanism, a one-way valve and interchangeable masks designed to form a seal around the mouth and nose.
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Its design allows the device to be applied externally, without inserting a tube or instrument into the throat. The one-way valve is designed to allow air to escape as the plunger is depressed, before negative pressure is generated when the plunger is pulled upwards.
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This suction is intended to help dislodge and remove an airway obstruction.
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LifeVac incorporates several practical design features:
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Non-invasive operation: The device is applied externally to the face.
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One-way valve system: Designed to prevent air being forced into the airway during operation.
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Interchangeable masks: Different sizes are supplied to accommodate different users.
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Manual operation: No electrical power, batteries or external suction supply are required.
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Portable design: The device can be stored within a childcare setting or carried as part of suitable emergency equipment.
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Dedicated training resources: Instructions, videos and additional familiarisation materials are available from the manufacturer.
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These features make LifeVac a practical option for childcare providers wishing to maintain additional emergency equipment.
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Staff should familiarise themselves with the manufacturer's instructions, including correct mask selection, positioning and operation.
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Particular attention should be given to the instructions applicable to babies and younger children.
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LifeVac is specifically designed for circumstances in which established choking first aid has been unsuccessful.
9. Is LifeVac Being Used by Other Childcare Providers?
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Yes. A growing number of nurseries, preschools and childminders have chosen to have genuine LifeVac devices available as part of their emergency preparations. Through The Oliver Steeper Foundation, we have funded and distributed more than 2,000 devices to early years providers across the United Kingdom.
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These include independent nurseries, preschool groups, childminders and larger childcare organisations.
One example is Banana Moon Nurseries, which has introduced wall-mounted LifeVac devices and portable kits across its network as part of its wider commitment to children's safety. The initiative has been supported by our Foundation and Eden Training Ltd.
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For providers such as Banana Moon, the intention is to introduce another potential safeguard alongside existing policies covering choking prevention, food preparation, supervision and first aid. We recognise that every early years provision is different.
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A single childminder working from home has very different operational arrangements from a large nursery group, but both share the same responsibility to plan for emergencies. The decision to introduce LifeVac should be an informed one, supported by appropriate training, policies and insurance arrangements.
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8. What Training Is Available for Nursery Staff and Childminders?
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LifeVac Europe provides dedicated training designed to help childcare professionals understand how the device works and when it is intended to be used. These resources can form part of a setting's wider programme of staff development and emergency preparedness.
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Free CPD-certified e-learning
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LifeVac Europe offers an online training course covering choking awareness, recognising an airway obstruction, correct device operation and the circumstances in which the device is intended to be used.
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Participants can obtain a certificate following successful completion.
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Instructional videos and guidance
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Genuine LifeVac kits include written instructions and access to instructional videos through a QR code. These demonstrate the device's operation and provide guidance on appropriate use.
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Online and face-to-face group training
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Additional training can be arranged for childcare organisations wishing to familiarise multiple members of staff with the device.
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This can be particularly useful for nursery groups seeking to establish consistent emergency procedures across different locations.
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Support from The Oliver Steeper Foundation
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For settings in Kent, the Foundation may be able to assist with demonstrations and staff familiarisation, subject to availability.
We encourage childcare providers to ensure that staff understand where the device is kept, how it operates and the circumstances in which it is intended to be used.
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Managers may also wish to include LifeVac familiarisation within induction programmes and periodic emergency procedure reviews.
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Appropriate paediatric first aid training, combined with LifeVac familiarisation, helps childcare practitioners understand the full range of emergency procedures and equipment available to them.
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10. Is LifeVac Being Used Within the NHS?
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LifeVac has been evaluated and introduced within certain NHS services as an
additional measure for managing choking emergencies.
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One example is Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW).
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The Trust undertook a pilot involving LifeVac, with public board records referring to the introduction of the device at Bridgewell Ward and the trust subsequently expanded its use within relevant services, with now multiple successful uses reported following implementation.
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These initiatives demonstrate how additional airway clearance equipment can be considered within professional healthcare environments through local clinical assessment and governance procedures.
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Individual NHS services make decisions concerning the equipment they use in accordance with their own clinical requirements and arrangements.
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For childcare providers, these examples are relevant because LifeVac has been considered within specialist healthcare settings as well as by families, childcare professionals and other organisations.
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The intended role remains consistent: to provide an additional means of attempting to remove an airway obstruction when established choking first aid has not succeeded.
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Further trials across other trusts remain ongoing.
11. Has LifeVac Been Used Successfully in Choking Emergencies?
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LifeVac Europe maintains a record of reported choking emergencies in which its devices have been used. The manufacturer has published accounts of thousands of reported successful uses worldwide, involving both children and adults. These reports describe choking emergencies involving a variety of obstructions, including food and other objects lodged within the airway.
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Reported incidents have occurred in homes, childcare environments, educational establishments and healthcare facilities.
For those responsible for young children, these accounts are particularly relevant because choking emergencies can develop rapidly and require immediate action.
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LifeVac Europe also publishes case reports and references to medical research concerning the device.
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Reported successful uses provide valuable information about circumstances in which the device has been employed. They should be considered alongside ongoing research assessing the clinical effectiveness and safety of suction-based airway clearance devices.
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At The Oliver Steeper Foundation, we believe childcare professionals and parents should have access to these accounts and official regulatory information when considering additional emergency equipment.
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The reported cases demonstrate the circumstances in which LifeVac has been used following unsuccessful established choking interventions.
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They also explain why many childcare providers and families have chosen to learn more about the device and its intended role in emergency preparedness.
12. Beware of Counterfeit and Unbranded Anti-Choking Devices
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This is an especially important issue for childcare providers and families.
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When purchasing emergency medical equipment, it is essential to ensure that products are genuine and comply with the applicable regulations. Genuine LifeVac devices are manufactured by LifeVac Europe Ltd and supplied with the appropriate regulatory information, instructions and equipment.
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The MHRA has issued a safety warning concerning counterfeit and unbranded anti-choking devices sold through online marketplaces.
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Some imitation products closely resemble genuine LifeVac equipment, including similar packaging, product imagery and descriptions.
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The MHRA has warned that counterfeit devices may fail to operate correctly and could worsen a choking emergency.
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To ensure that childcare providers obtain genuine equipment, we recommend:
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Purchasing directly from LifeVac Europe or a reputable authorised UK supplier.
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Checking the manufacturer's details, product packaging and conformity markings.
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Ensuring that the correct instructions and equipment are included.
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Being cautious of unusually inexpensive imitation products.
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Contacting the manufacturer if there is any uncertainty about authenticity.
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The Oliver Steeper Foundation supplies genuine LifeVac devices obtained through appropriate UK supply channels.
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Using genuine, appropriately regulated equipment is an essential part of responsible emergency preparedness.
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Read The Oliver Steeper Foundation's counterfeit device guidance
13. What Should a Childcare Setting Consider Before Introducing LifeVac?
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For nurseries, preschools and childminders considering introducing a device, we recommend taking a practical and considered approach.
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The aim should be to make emergency arrangements clearer and more robust, rather than creating unnecessary complexity.
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Before introducing LifeVac, providers should consider the following:
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Maintain first aid compliance. Ensure existing paediatric first aid training, policies and staffing arrangements meet the applicable EYFS requirements.
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Consult your insurer. Inform your insurance provider and request written clarification of any conditions applying to the device.
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Complete appropriate familiarisation. Ensure staff understand how the device works, when it is intended to be considered and its limitations.
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Update your emergency arrangements. Clearly document the intended role of LifeVac alongside recognised choking first aid, including the requirement to call emergency services promptly.
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Choose a suitable location. Store the device somewhere secure, readily accessible to staff and appropriate for your childcare environment.
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Check the equipment. Follow the manufacturer's guidance concerning mask condition, expiry or replacement schedules, storage and maintenance.
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Communicate with parents. Consider explaining the setting's approach to choking prevention, emergency first aid and any additional equipment available.
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Review your arrangements. Revisit your procedures as clinical guidance, regulatory information and staff training requirements evolve.
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For larger nursery groups, these considerations may form part of a central policy covering multiple premises.
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For childminders and smaller settings, a proportionate approach may be more appropriate.
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The important thing is that everyone responsible for the children understands what should happen in an emergency.
14. Why The Oliver Steeper Foundation Supports Access to LifeVac
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The Oliver Steeper Foundation was established following the devastating loss of our nine-month-old son, Oliver, after a choking incident at nursery in September 2021.
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As Oliver's parents, we understand the heartbreak of losing a child and the importance of ensuring that those responsible for children's care have the knowledge and resources needed to respond to an emergency.
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Our experience led us to establish the Foundation with a clear purpose: to improve choking awareness and provide LifeVac devices to nurseries, preschools and childminders across the United Kingdom.
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We firmly believe that every child deserves the safest possible environment and that childcare providers should have access to information and equipment that may help them respond when conventional first aid has not succeeded.
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Through the generosity of our supporters, businesses and fundraising partners, we have supplied more than 2,000 LifeVac devices to early years providers.
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Each device represents another childcare setting with access to an additional emergency option if established choking procedures are unable to clear an obstruction.
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We recognise the importance of high-quality paediatric first aid training, effective supervision, safe food preparation and choking prevention.
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LifeVac has a distinct role alongside these arrangements, providing an additional medical device designed for circumstances in which established choking first aid has failed.
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Our work is driven by the desire to create a lasting and positive legacy in Oliver's memory.
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We hope that no nursery, preschool, childminder or parent will ever need to use a LifeVac device. However, we believe that having an additional option available following unsuccessful first aid is something every childcare provider should be able to consider.
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By providing devices, information and access to training, we aim to help more early years settings prepare for emergencies and support the safety of the children in their care.
15. Our Final Message to Nurseries, Preschools, Childminders and Parents​
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Choking emergencies can occur suddenly, even in carefully managed and supervised childcare environments.
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The importance of prevention, prompt recognition and appropriate first aid cannot be overstated.
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At The Oliver Steeper Foundation, we are committed to supporting these principles while promoting access to LifeVac as an additional airway clearance device.
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For childcare providers and parents considering LifeVac, the key facts are clear:
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LifeVac is a genuine, regulated Class I medical device legally available in the United Kingdom.
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LifeVac is designed to provide an additional means of attempting to remove an airway obstruction when established choking first aid has failed.
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The Resuscitation Council UK remains neither for nor against the use of LifeVac and other suction-based airway clearance devices.
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The MHRA confirmed that restrictions on LifeVac's wider UK availability were lifted in June 2023.
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Genuine LifeVac devices may be used for their intended purpose in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and applicable requirements.
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Ofsted does not prohibit childcare settings from possessing genuine LifeVac equipment.
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Dedicated LifeVac training and familiarisation resources are available to childcare providers.
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Insurance cover may be available under childcare policies, subject to the individual insurer's terms and conditions.
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LifeVac has been introduced within childcare, educational and certain professional healthcare environments.
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The Oliver Steeper Foundation has already supplied more than 2,000 LifeVac devices to early years providers across the United Kingdom.
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The Oliver Steeper Foundation believes that accurate information is essential when making decisions about children's safety. LifeVac provides an additional emergency option when established choking first aid has been unsuccessful. It is legally available in the United Kingdom, and the Resuscitation Council UK maintains a neutral position, neither recommending nor opposing the use of suction-based airway clearance devices.
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Our commitment is to continue helping nurseries, preschools, childminders and families understand this option while promoting choking awareness, effective first aid and access to genuine emergency equipment.
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Everything we do is in loving memory of Oliver and with the hope that other families may never have to experience the loss that led to the creation of our Foundation.
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Apply for a Funded LifeVac Device
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The Oliver Steeper Foundation provides genuine LifeVac devices free of charge to eligible Ofsted-registered nurseries, preschools and childminders across the United Kingdom, subject to funding and application availability.
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16. Purchase a genuine LifeVac device and help our charity at no extra cost.
LifeVac® is regulated as a Class I medical device, CE marked and regulated by major medical authorities - including the MHRA (UK), FDA (USA), TGA (Australia), HPFB (Canada), MOH, and SAHPRA - providing reassurance in safety, quality, and performance. LifeVac is also ISO13485 accredited.
Each sale returns 15% into the charity to supply funded devices to nurseries, preschools and childminders across the UK
* Price shown is the discounted price using the code OF10 on www.lifevac.uk
** Free replacement is offered in return for a anonymous usage report here