IMPACT INSIGHTS
ISSUE #4 June 2026
Bystander Enablement Research Programme Often members of the public or non-clinical emergency services are the first on the scene following a road traffic collision. The Bystander Enablement Research Programme, undertaken on the 2nd-4th June in Exeter, is a research study examining how these people could assess an injured patient. It focuses on simple, equipment‑free trauma assessments that may be performed by bystanders or non-clinical emergency responders before ambulance services arrive. Participants, including lay bystanders, police officers, fire and rescue personnel and clinicians, completed a series of structured modules, covering consciousness assessment, pulse detection, heart rate classification, simulated medication preparation, and a realistic collision scenario with a mock 999 call. The aim: to evaluate how accurately key elements of the simplified Bleeding Audit Triage Trauma (sBATT) tool can be applied across different groups. Early assessment and communication at road traffic collisions can influence patient outcomes. This research aims to generate evidence to improve trauma assessment, decision‑making, and communication across public and professional responder groups, helping to inform future training and practice. Alongside its primary aims, the study created meaningful opportunities for early-career researchers to gain hands-on experience, strengthening both practical skills and understanding of evidence generation in postcollision care. The event underscored the value of collaborative working across research, emergency services and the wider community. We extend our sincere thanks to all participants and volunteers, whose time and engagement were essential to the delivery of the study. With special thanks to 3B Scientific, Casualties Union and Project Packington. A personal acknowledgement to Colin Sharp, and Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, for their invaluable support and for facilitating the event at Exeter Middlemoor Fire Station.
www.post-collision.com