Page 145 - Archived Back Issues

SUPPORTING
THE FIRE
CADETS
Livery companies have been involved in the training and development of young people for centuries. Apprentices were indentured to their masters in order to learn the skills of their particular trade. The livery companies set and maintained the standards of their respective trades and provided regulation. Education was a cornerstone on which the trade or craft was built and flourished.
For the last two years the WCoFF has supported the Community Fire Cadets (CFC) programmes developed and run by the London Fire Brigade (LFB). The courses, which are seen as 'life- changing', are for young people, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The courses last for 15 months and include practical firefighting skills, life safety and engagement with the community.
The programme, which is very much in the traditions of livery, enhances employment opportunities in the fire service or elsewhere, and can lead to a BTEC qualification.
On the completion of each CFC course, the Master of the Company of Firefighters presents an award for outstanding achievement to the top cadet. The WCoFF's charitable trust, in association with Bristol Uniforms, also buys the personnel protection equipment for all cadets on a CFC course being run by LFB in 2013.
The WCoFF Charitable Trust has also supported education and training in Croydon by providing junior fire kit for use by youngsters attending the Croydon Fire Brigade training programme 'Crossfire', which aims to combat antisocial behaviour among young people, such as fire- setting, hoax calling and crime, promotes good citizenship and personal safety.
During a Crossfire session, the best behaved learners are able to dress in fire kit. Usually, this involves the protective clothing belonging to the officers delivering the session, but this time the team were able to dress in brand new youth fire kit donated by the WCoFF. Borough Commander Chris Bigland said: “I am incredibly grateful to the Worshipful Company of Firefighters for recognising the work of this vital team. The gift we received today will help us bring this crucial learning to life.
Article abstracted with thanks from the magazine Crisis Response Journal and was written by Past Master Geoff Morgan.
Bryan Spearman of the WCoFF (above), in association with Bristol Uniforms, presented three junior firefighting kits to David Gill of the Crossfire team. The kits will be used at all Crossfire programmes across Croydon, UK.
Please support this major fund raising event by your presence.
The cost per head is £110 and is inclusive of the dinner dance, entertainment, reception drink and 1⁄2 bottle of wine.
To reserve your places please send a deposit of £30 per head to:
Andy Phillips, Little Tors, School Road, Kelvendon Hatch, Essex, CM15 0DH
Cheques payable to “The Worshipful Company of Firefighters Charitable Trust” Tables of 10 or individuals are all welcome.
You can also take advantage of a specially negotiated room rate for overnight accommodation which includes breakfast, for Friday and Saturday nights at the Portman Hotel, Portman Square, London W1H 7BG. The rate for a double room is £185 per night (£175 per night for a single room). For room bookings please call the hotel on 0207 208 6000 and ask for reservations and quote reference number 130920BRAN and the date of the event (21st September 2013) and the name (Fire Industry Charity Ball).
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