Taster session for anyone interested in becoming an on-call firefighter

The Isles of Scilly Fire & Rescue Service will soon be recruiting for positions on St Mary’s, Tresco and Bryher. Before we advertise any jobs, we’re inviting anyone who may be interested in training as an on-call firefighter on Scilly to come and see if they have what it takes to apply. Details of this event are as follows:

Where: St Mary’s Fire Station

When: 6pm-9pm on Tuesday 27 June 2023

What to expect: Attendees will try some of the tests that trainee firefighters complete during the recruitment process. These include:

  • Equipment carry
  • Ladder climb
  • Breathing apparatus
  • Hose running
  • Talk to members of the crew about what being a firefighter on Scilly is all about

All required PPE/Fire Kit will be provided, but you will need to wear trainers and fitness clothing and bring a bottle of water with you.

You will need to attend a safety brief and will be given the opportunity to ask any questions about the session in advance.

We may ask you to provide feedback to improve future events

What ‘on-call’ firefighter means

On-call firefighters are called upon at short notice when needed for operational incidents or emergencies. The Isles of Scilly has around 44 On-call firefighters. The role is paid and can be undertaken alongside other jobs and commitments. Full training is provided.

You don’t need to have any previous firefighting experience to apply to be an on-call firefighter, just the passion to train hard to learn new skills to protect your community. You must, however, be able to meet the following criteria in order to apply:

  • be at least 18 years old at the start of employment, but you can apply before then. There is no maximum age limit for applications.
  • have no unspent criminal convictions at the time you start employment. Unspent criminal convictions at the time of application can be discussed at the first contact meeting
  • have the right to work in the UK
  • have good eyesight so that you meet the visual standards
  • have a good level of strength and fitness
  • have an education of Maths and English (ideally to level GCSE C or equivalent).

We have a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. We are stepping up our positive action targeting and encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, specifically from:

  • women;
  • people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender (or the wider spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities); and
  • those who are from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background

Representing our communities and having difference in a team is important. It creates new ways of thinking through having different perceptions and points of view. It keeps an organisation thriving with ideas and innovation. It also ensures that every member of our service is engaged and knows they are valued.

Further information

Transport to and from St Mary’s will be provided if required.

If you would like to ask any questions ahead of the event, please contact Station Manager Kevin James on 07824312889 or at kevin.james@scilly.gov.uk

 

 

Publishing date: 
Monday, 19 June, 2023