Wick scheme for fire service volunteers gets under way
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Young volunteers in Wick have joined a fire and rescue service scheme to help promote a safer Scotland.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Services' Wick Youth Volunteer Scheme got under way at Wick High School last week.
The local scheme co-ordinator, Watch Commander Andrew Mackay, said the main objective is to provide a safe, welcoming, enjoyable and fun environment where young people can learn as individuals, develop positive relationships and actively work together for a safer Scotland.
The scheme provides a great opportunity for young people across Scotland to develop their skill set and make a valuable contribution to their local communities, whilst gaining a unique insight into life at a working fire station.
He added: “By participating in the programme, young people will have a practical understanding of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and play a supportive role in their communities as youth volunteers; supporting development and enhancing inter-personal skills and confidence.
"All our staff, volunteers and youth volunteers play a crucial role in making Scotland safer. Being part of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is a rewarding experience and many of the people who contribute to our shared vision share a strong sense of belonging and commitment.
“People who represent the service are widely viewed as role models within our communities. Youth volunteers will develop this representation to ensure that our future engagement continues to promote safer communities whilst developing our young citizens' skills for life, learning and work; promoting fairness and equality through active participation and engagement opportunities.”
He stressed that the scheme is not about recruiting future firefighters and the service cannot guarantee any young person further employment. However, he said the service will offer as much support and guidance as possible to young people with an interest in the service.
Anyone aged 12 to 17 years who is interested in becoming a youth volunteer should email SFRS.youthengagement@firescotland.gov.uk for further information.
If you are over 18 and interested in becoming a volunteer youth instructor, vacancies will be advertised through MyJob Scotland, and you can also email the above address for further information.
The Scheme in Wick will run every Monday night during term times between 6.30pm and 9pm.
A further nine local youth volunteer schemes are being run across Scotland at fire stations in Alloa, Campbeltown, Dumbarton, Helensburgh, Kilmarnock, Livingston, Methil, Peterhead and Tobermory.
