SCAS25 looked back, in order to chart the way forward— marking 10 years of Scotland’s Strategy for OHCA.

After a welcome from Dr Gareth Clegg and a keynote from Dr John Harden - blending a clinician’s perspective with the view from Scottish Government - we explored non-technical skills in ALS with Luke Roberts-Andreou, paediatric cardiac arrest with Steven Short, and went interactive with a live resuscitation demo by the SCAS Players. Gregor and Judy Newton along with Lisa MacInnes presented the Newton Award followed by Dr Jim Ward’s Newton Lecture - reminding us of the real lives lie behind every data point, and each link in the chain of survival.

Seven rapid fire Flash Talks showcased innovation and insight from across the system — from PAD mapping and dispatcher CPR to bystander voices and BAME perspectives. The afternoon featured a candid overview of the Essex Way from Dr Uzma Sajjad, reflections through a cardiologist’s lens from Prof Rachel Myles, and a powerful closing call to action from Mark Webster. As ever, the SCAS stage brought challenge, creativity, and a renewed commitment to saving lives together.