A pioneering new app, RescQ, has been launched in Essex to provide emotional and psychological support for people who witness out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA). The first initiative of its kind in the UK, the app aims to fill a critical gap in care for what medical experts describe as the “forgotten patients” — bystanders, family members, or friends who experience trauma after witnessing a cardiac emergency.
Developed by the Essex Cardiothoracic Centre, RescQ is currently undergoing a one-year pilot in Essex before a planned expansion across Norfolk and Hertfordshire. Dr Uzma Sajjad, cardiology research fellow at the centre, emphasised that there are currently few resources available in the UK for this group. “This new app aims to bridge that gap by providing essential information and signposting support through a dedicated website,” she said.
Comprehensive Support Through App and Website
The RescQ app connects users to a website featuring real-life stories from OHCA witnesses, as well as expert advice from psychologists and healthcare professionals. The platform explains what to expect after witnessing a cardiac arrest and offers coping strategies to help manage emotional distress.
In cases where further support is needed, users can request assistance from trained patient liaison officers.
Wider Healthcare Collaboration
The RescQ app is being developed in partnership with the East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST), Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, East Anglian Air Ambulance, and Sudden Cardiac Arrest UK.
EEAST land crews will use the app to document details of each OHCA incident, including the number of witnesses involved. In the first week of the Essex trial, 18 cardiac arrests were recorded, and support was provided to 22 bystanders.
A Growing Need for Emotional Support
Each year, around 3,500 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in Essex alone, according to the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust. The RescQ project has been funded with £75,000 by the NHS East of England Cardiac Network and will continue until early 2026.
Justine Di Fede, sector clinical lead at EEAST, highlighted the significance of the initiative: “Being able to offer this level of support to people who are often forgotten about is so important.”
The success of the Essex pilot could pave the way for a broader national rollout, offering vital mental health support to thousands of witnesses across the UK.
