Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 02/12/2005 14:00

*****Photo Opportunity*****
2pm on Friday 2nd December 2005 at Mullion Fire Station

In September 2002 Cornwall County Fire Brigade launched an exciting new scheme called ˇĄThe Phoenix Projectˇ¦.

The aim of the Phoenix Project is to invest in young people, using the reputation of the brigade to benefit youngsters and in turn the wider community. It is targeted towards the 13 to 17 age group. To date thirty courses have taken place and over 500 young people have successfully passed the course.

Sub Officer Tim Cocks, Phoenix Project Manager said: ˇ§Phoenix is a fun and exciting opportunity to work with the fire service, giving youngsters a variety of mental and physical activities with the aim to build team spirit and selfˇVconfidence.

He cont: ˇ§The principle aim of the Phoenix Project is to invest in young people. We utilise the skills, experience and reputation of Cornwall County Fire Brigade to address individual issues and improve community spirit and safety. Students are encouraged to develop a sense of pride and diligence in their approach to work and to acquire greater self-esteemˇ¨


During a week long initial course students take part in activities aimed at improving self-esteem, self discipline and responsibility. This is achieved by employing fundamental Fire service principals of Communication, Teamwork and Discipline

The Phoenix Project is geared towards students between the ages of 13 -17, who have not yet fulfilled their potential. The aims of the Phoenix Project are to:
„X Increase self-esteem and self confidence
„X Develop leadership skills
„X Develop communication skills
„X Improve motivation
„X Promote community spirit within young people
„X Enhance employment prospects of socially excluded people
„X Reduce levels of anti-social behaviour and disorder related offences by young people and children
„X Deliver a clear community fire safety message
„X Promote equal opportunities within employment

The students that complete this week long course will be invited back to their local station to engage in a further five sessions. These sessions are structured with activities and speakers in place to ensure that each of the sessions has a relevant learning experience. These include:
anti-social behaviour
vehicle safety
home safety
careers
alcohol and substance misuse

On the fifth session the students will provide some form of presentation evening. Both full time and part time firefighters have been very pro-active in helping with this project and have voluntarily attended to help whenever possible.

"The Fire Brigade is one of the Countyˇ¦s most visible and highly-regarded local services, so they are natural hosts for a project like Phoenix. The project aims to reach out to the wider community, in particular to young people who may feel excluded elsewhere"
said Chief Fire Officer Matt Littmoden.


The Project is delivered throughout Cornwall. For more information please contact Tim Cocks at Falmouth Fire Station 01326 212412.