Gauteng Health issues urgent warning about scammers charging fees for its emergency responder training
The Gauteng Department of Health warns residents about fraudsters charging fees for its free First Responder Training programme.
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The Gauteng Department of Health has issued a public warning after discovering social media posters advertising paid “First Responder Training” courses using the department’s name without authorisation.
The department says it has noted “with serious concern” that members of the public were being asked to pay to attend the programme.
The department stressed the training is offered at no cost through its official institution, Lebone College of Emergency Care.
“The Department wishes to advise the public that First Responder Training offered by the Department's Lebone College of Emergency Care is provided free of charge for all residents of Gauteng.”
Officials warned that anyone charging fees while using the department’s name is acting illegally.
"Any individual or organisation charging community members for this training while using the Department's name is doing so without authorisation.”
The First Responder Training programme equips residents with basic life-saving skills, including CPR, assisting victims of violence, and responding to injuries such as stab and gunshot wounds, burns, falls and sprains.
Authorities said the initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen emergency response capacity in vulnerable communities.
“Since the relaunch of the programme in 2023, GDoH has prioritised training of community members from disadvantaged areas, including townships, informal settlements and hostels (TISH).”
According to the department, more than 12,000 people have already been trained to respond to emergencies.
The department emphasised it is the only authorised organiser of the programme and urged residents to verify invitations before attending any course.
“Members of the public must immediately report scams or anyone demanding payment for this training to Lebone College of Emergency Care.”
Residents can report suspicious activity by contacting the college directly via its official channels.
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