Fire service’s Prince’s Trust programme for young people
Young people in Portsmouth will soon have access to an exciting new opportunity thanks to a new Prince’s Trust programme being launched in Waterlooville this month.
Starting on January 22, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue (HIWFRS) will start the new 12-week course for unemployed young people – aged between 16-25 – who aren’t in education and are unsure about their future goals.
The programme, which will be run out of Waterlooville Fire Station, is designed to boost confidence, increase motivation, and help team members gain the new skills and experiences needed to turn their lives around.
Every team member who completes the course also receives a nationally recognised Level 1 Employment, Teamwork and Community Skills qualification certificate.
Recent team members spoke of the huge difference the programme has made to their lives. Abi, 22, from Basingstoke, joined the programme after leaving
Bath University in her third year due to personal circumstances.
Abi said: “I was at home applying for jobs and getting nowhere. Also, all my friends were still at uni in Bath so I felt slightly isolated and had no idea what my next steps would be. My mum, who is currently a fire safety inspector in HIWFRS, then suggested I apply for the PT programme and I’m so glad I did.
“I would definitely recommend the programme to others.”
Abi is now considering applying for roles within the fire service, as well as potential apprenticeships in environmental health with the council.
Liam, 22, from London, joined the Basingstoke Prince’s Trust team after moving there from London.
Liam said: “The course was suggested to me by the local job centre as I had just moved to the area and didn’t know anybody.
“To anyone thinking of joining, I would say, just go for it.”
If you’re aged 16-25 and looking for a new challenge or know someone who is, email: princes-trust@ hantsfire.gov.uk or text Team to 07918 887897 for more information.
To anyone thinking of joining, I would say, just go for it