Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 05/12/2011 10:42

A group of people referred by Penryn Jobcentre Plus will be celebrating their achievement in completing an innovative three week course run by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Services’s Phoenix Works team at a presentation event at Falmouth Community Fire Station on Tuesday 13 December.

The Government-funded course, which was developed by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service in partnership with Cornwall Works, aims to provide support and training to increase the employment opportunities of those who take part.

Referred by the local jobcentre, all participants were given the opportunity to gain an ASDAN level one qualification whilst taking part in a range of fire service activities to promote teamwork, communication skills, raise confidence and aspirations. The course includes train the trainer, first aid, interview techniques and life skills. Part of the course gives the group the opportunity to meet local employers, support agencies and community groups to help the individuals to identify future employment, training or voluntary opportunities.

CFRS Chief Fire Officer Des Tidbury said: “I am encouraged to see how the Phoenix Works team has been able to use the work and reputation of the fire and rescue service to help this group of people develop useful new skills.”

Sue Winfield, manager of Penryn Jobcentre Plus, said:“Jobcentre Plus is now working with groups and employers across Cornwall to ensure jobseekers get the training and skills they need to take up local jobs.The Cornwall Fire and Rescue Services course should give young jobseekers a real lift and help them build valuable skills to take into the world of work.”

Cornwall Council Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Public Protection Lance Kennedy said: “These courses are an excellent example of how, by working with partners such as Cornwall Works and Jobcentre Plus, we can really make a difference to the lives of these individuals. I am delighted to celebrate the people who have embraced this opportunity to learn from the best.”