Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 09/04/2008 15:20

*****Photo Opportunity*****

2pm on Friday 11th April 2008 at Truro Fire Station

Ten male students aged 14 and 15 from Pencalenick School in Truro will be ‘passing out’ this Friday at Truro Fire Station. The official passing out parade is to commemorate the work the students have completed this week on ‘The Phoenix Project’.

The Phoenix Project has been run by the Brigade since 2002 and works on improving young people’s self esteem, communication, motivation and community spirit. Students from Pencalenick School used fire fighting simulation activities to learn how to communicate more effectively and work as a team.

Tim Cocks, Phoenix Project Manager said: “The principal 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. The students from Pencalenick were very enthusiastic and worked extremely hard to succeed in their teamwork.”

The Phoenix Project is a Cornwall wide initiative geared towards students between the ages of 13 -17, who may have not yet fulfilled their potential. The aims of the Phoenix Project are to:

• Increase self-esteem and self confidence
• Develop leadership skills
• Develop communication skills
• Improve motivation
• Promote community spirit within young people
• Enhance employment prospects of socially excluded people
• Reduce levels of anti-social behaviour and disorder related offences by young people and children
• Deliver a clear community fire safety message
• Promote equal opportunities within employment

“The Fire Brigade is one of the county’s most visible and well respected local services, which is why the Phoenix Project is so successful. It’s great to see young people who may otherwise at times feel excluded gain a sense of achievement and confidence.” said Chief Fire Officer Matt Littmoden.

Councillor Ken Yeo (Lib Dem), Executive Member for Public Protection added: “The continued success of the Phoenix Project under the leadership of Tim Cocks is life changing for the young people who take part. The speeches given by the young people at their passing out ceremony give a very clear message on the value of the project. My congratulations to Tim and the team for the wonderful service provided.”

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