Mini First Aid was founded in 2014 by Kate Ball, who recognised the need for accessible, engaging first aid training for parents and carers. Her vision began in Leeds, offering baby and toddler first aid classes where parents could learn vital lifesaving skills in a relaxed, family-friendly environment – with their babies by their side. What started as a local initiative quickly proved scalable, with Mini First Aid launching its first franchise just 18 months later.
Today, Mini First Aid has grown into a leading name in first aid training and education, with 72 franchises and more than 100 trainers covering 90% of the UK. The brand delivers an extensive range of courses for adults and children of all ages – from parent and carer classes to school-based programmes, teenage first aid, adventurer training, and adult awareness sessions. Every class is designed to be interactive, memorable, and affordable, ensuring lifesaving knowledge is accessible to all.
Operating from its head office in Leeds, Mini First Aid is a proud member of the British Franchise Association, the First Aid Industry Body, and the Global Alliance for Child Safety. All classes are CPD-accredited, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality, consistency, and professional standards. Beyond classes, Mini First Aid also offers branded first aid kits, available online, through classes, and via major UK retailers, extending the brand’s reach into households nationwide.
Innovation has been central to the company’s growth. Since 2017, Mini First Aid has expanded its offering with classes for schools and nurseries, certified training courses, teenage-focused first aid, travel-based courses, baby-proofing sessions, and even Healthy Minds training to support children’s wellbeing. This continuous development has enabled franchisees to diversify their services and meet the evolving needs of families and communities.
Mini First Aid’s success is rooted in a clear purpose: empowering people with the skills to save lives. By making first aid training more approachable and inclusive, Kate and her team have created a values-driven business that combines commercial strength with meaningful social impact.
Being named a finalist for Franchisor of the Year – Expanding at the BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards 2025 is a testament to Mini First Aid’s remarkable journey – from one parent-led class in Leeds to a national franchise network that educates, empowers, and protects communities across the UK.
Watch their Best in Franchising video for 2025 to find out more.
