In this episode of the JPF First Aid Podcast, host John Fogarty kicks off 2026 by focusing on a skill that isn’t always labelled as “first aid”, but can make a huge difference to mental health support and wellbeing: active, non-judgemental listening. He explains how unhelpful, well-intentioned responses (like “you’ll be fine” or “just push through it”) can shut people down, and shows how listening properly can help someone feel heard, safe and supported, without trying to “fix” them.

John explores what good listening actually looks like in practice, why our tone, body language and facial expressions matter just as much as our words, and what to avoid when someone is struggling (rushing, giving advice too quickly, comparing stories, or minimising emotions). John also shares practical ways to improve everyday conversations, at home and at work, by listening to understand, not just listening to reply.

Key Takeaways

What Active Listening Really Means

• Active listening is giving someone your full attention and creating space for them to talk, without jumping in with solutions.
• It means listening to understand, not listening to reply, noticing when you’re already planning your response and bringing your focus back to the person.
• In many situations, being heard is “half the problem”, people often shut down when they don’t feel listened to.

Non-Judgemental Listening: Why It Matters

• Non-judgemental listening includes your words and your non-verbal cues, tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language can unintentionally come across as judgemental.
• Judgement (real or perceived) can stop someone speaking up, especially when they’re dealing with anxiety, depression, burnout or emotional distress.
• You don’t have to agree with everything, but respecting someone’s experience enough to listen properly helps reduce shame, build trust, and encourage honesty.

Helpful Responses vs Conversation-Stoppers

• Reassurance can backfire when someone is struggling. Phrases like “everyone feels like that” can feel like dismissal and can discourage them from opening up again.
• A more supportive response acknowledges the feeling and invites them to share: for example, recognising it sounds difficult and asking what’s been making things hard.
• The goal isn’t to fix the issue immediately; it’s to show the person they’ve been heard and that you’re present with them.

What to Avoid When Someone Opens Up

• Avoid giving advice too quickly, comparing experiences, minimising feelings, or shifting the focus back onto yourself.
• If you do mention a similar experience, John suggests bringing it back to them: acknowledging it briefly, then making clear the conversation is about them.
• Don’t let distractions take over; phones, paperwork, and busy environments can signal you’re not really listening. If needed, move somewhere quieter or take a short walk.

Key Moments

“Even reassurance can feel like dismissal when someone is already struggling.”

“We need to listen to understand, not just listen to reply.”

“Any silence isn’t considered a failure. It’s space.”

“You don’t need perfect words, you just need presence, time and patience.”

“First aid isn’t always about what we do, it’s often about how we listen.”

About the Host

John Fogarty has a training background dating back to 2005, with achievements including a teaching qualification and assessor standard. He has previously worked with two first aid charities, delivering sessions in workplace and educational environments.

John has consistently received excellent feedback for his delivery and customer service, as evident in numerous reviews. He ensures learners enjoy and achieve their goals, and works with customers to select the right courses and resolves any issues promptly.

Find out more at www.jpffirstaid.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this end-of-year “best of” episode of the JPF First Aid Podcast, host John Fogerty looks back over some of the most important topics covered across 2025. He revisits practical first aid foundations (including what to say when calling the emergency services, first aid kit essentials, choking and poisoning), and reflects on mental health themes from the year, including a powerful conversation about bereavement and a reminder of how employers and employees can help build a healthier workplace mental health culture.

Key Takeaways

First Aid Foundations: Calling for Help (Episode 18)

• John revisits the key information emergency call handlers need, using the memorable LIONEL prompt: Location, Incident, Other services, Number of casualties, Extent of injuries, Location (repeat).
• He highlights why location matters so much (postcodes can be misleading) and recommends the what3words app to pinpoint an exact spot, useful if reception drops mid-call.

First Aid Kits: What to Include (and Avoid) (Episode 19)

• A workplace first aid kit should be guided by a first aid needs assessment, including what’s required for your setting and the right quantities.
• John stresses the importance of checking kits regularly (he references monthly as a minimum), looking for out-of-date items and damaged packaging that may no longer be sterile.

Choking: A Clear Step-by-Step Approach (Episode 20)

• John walks through, recognising severe airway obstruction (unable to speak/cough, colour change, clutching throat) and reinforces asking quick questions like “Are you choking?” and “Can you cough?” (including gaining consent where possible).
• The core response: up to 5 back blows, then up to 5 abdominal thrusts, checking after each attempt.

Poisoning: Don’t Make It Worse

• Key do’s and don’ts include:
• Don’t induce vomiting, especially with corrosive substances (risk of burning on the way back up).
• Keep evidence of what was taken (including vomit if it occurs naturally) to help clinicians identify the substance.
• Monitor breathing and be prepared to place in the recovery position if unresponsive and breathing, or start CPR if breathing stops.

Bereavement: There’s No “Getting Over It”

• John revisits a conversation with counsellor Lynne Walsh, who emphasises that grief is not a straight line; it can be rocky, up and down, and influenced by significant dates and “firsts.”
• A key message is language: rather than “getting over” someone, we often adjust to life without them, while still carrying a continuing bond or sense of connection.

Workplace Mental Health: Shared Responsibility

• John closes the year by revisiting workplace wellbeing: the idea that both employers and employees can shape a healthier culture.
• Practical actions discussed include mental health policies/action plans, training (including mental health first aid awareness), open communication, recognition, and involving people in decisions and workload management.

Key Moments

“We have a well-known way of remembering that information… and it’s called LIONEL.”

“What three words… can actually pinpoint… in a 3 metre by 3 metre square.”

“When helping somebody who is severely choking, we want to ask that question, ‘Are you choking?’”

“We never get over the loss of someone significant… we begin to adjust to a life without that person.”

About the Host

John Fogarty has a training background dating back to 2005, with achievements including a teaching qualification and assessor standard. He has previously worked with two first aid charities, delivering sessions in workplace and educational environments.

John has consistently received excellent feedback for his delivery and customer service, as evident in numerous reviews. He ensures learners enjoy and achieve their goals, and works with customers to select the right courses and resolves any issues promptly.

Find out more at: https://jpffirstaid.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the JPF First Aid Podcast, host John Fogerty revisits the crucial guide to understanding meningitis and sepsis, two life-threatening conditions that can be difficult to spot. He explains the symptoms, how they may appear differently in babies, children, and adults, and why it's vital to act quickly if you suspect either condition. John also covers essential first aid tips for both, as well as preventive measures such as vaccinations and good hygiene practices.

Key Takeaways

Recognising Meningitis: Symptoms include a high fever, headache, a stiff neck, and sensitivity to light, with a rash appearing later. In babies, it may manifest as unusual crying, vomiting, and a reluctance to wake up.

Sepsis Symptoms: Symptoms include blue or pale skin, difficulty breathing, confusion, and a high-pitched cry in children. Sepsis may occur after any infection and requires urgent medical attention.

The Importance of Early Detection: If you spot any symptoms of meningitis or sepsis, call 999 or visit the hospital immediately. Early treatment is critical to improving outcomes.

First Aid and Prevention: Clean wounds properly, follow antibiotic instructions, and ensure vaccinations are up to date to prevent sepsis. For both conditions, acting quickly is key to providing effective care.

Key Moments

“Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord—get to the hospital immediately if you spot the signs.”

“Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to infection, and it can affect anyone—especially those with weakened immune systems or after surgery.”

“If a rash doesn’t fade when you press a glass against it, this is a strong indicator of meningitis—seek medical help immediately.”

“With sepsis, acting quickly can prevent long-term damage, so don’t hesitate to call 999 if you’re unsure.”

About the Host

John Fogarty has a training background dating back to 2005, with achievements including a teaching qualification and assessor standard. He has previously worked with two first aid charities, delivering sessions in workplace and educational environments.

John has consistently received excellent feedback for his delivery and customer service, as evident in numerous reviews. He ensures learners enjoy and achieve their goals, and works with customers to select the right courses and resolves any issues promptly.

Find out more at www.jpffirstaid.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.