Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 07/07/2006 14:00

*****Photo Opportunity*****
2pm on Friday 7th July 2006 at Bodmin Fire Station

Ten male students from Bodmin Community College will be ¡¥passing out¡¦ this Friday at Bodmin Fire Station. The official passing out parade is to commemorate the work the students have completed on a week long course ¡¥The Phoenix Project¡¦.

The Phoenix Project was launched in September 2002 by Cornwall County Fire Brigade. 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.

Sub Officer Tim Cocks, Phoenix Project Manager said: ¡§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-esteem¡¨
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 Fire Brigade is one of the County¡¦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, who will be attending the parade.

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