220 youngsters are fired up by Phoenix project

FIREFIGHTERS have been helping to inspire and raise the confidence of the region's young people in a unique project.

- NICOLE GOODWIN

The Phoenix programme sees crews use practical firefighter training activities to help young people develop essential life skills while making safer choices for themselves and their communities.

Over the last two years, 220 young people aged between nine and 25 from 26 primary and secondary schools, have taken part in the programme. Last month saw the latest group completing the community-based programme.

The co-delivered project presents targeted prevention work between Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) and Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service.

This current Phoenix programme has operated out of four community fire stations using the skills of five specialist instructors and nine firefighters, and over the past two years, 24 individual Respect and Aspire programmes have been delivered.