Cleveland Fire Brigade has announced a significant recruitment drive for Wholetime Firefighters, marking a crucial step in enhancing fire and rescue services in the region.

This initiative comes as a welcome development for individuals aspiring to embark on a firefighting career and contribute to community safety.

Fire brigade seeks new recruits

The Brigade’s recruitment campaign is open from 4th December to 10th December 2023, targeting individuals committed to creating safer, stronger communities.

This effort is a unique opportunity to join one of the country’s most successful fire and rescue services.

Chief Fire Officer Ian Hayton emphasises the diverse role of a firefighter, which extends beyond firefighting to community engagement, fire prevention, and safety education.

The Brigade seeks candidates who can work under pressure, collaborate in teams, and possess a commitment to fitness and community service​​.

A decade’s first and career opportunities

This recruitment marks the first full-time firefighter campaign by the Cleveland Fire Brigade in ten years, a significant event considering the previous hiatus since 2009 due to government cuts.

The Brigade plans to appoint 12 new firefighters, a move enabled by increased fire authority council tax, which has helped maintain critical firefighter positions.

This development not only revives the recruitment process but also ensures the retention of firefighter roles within the community​​.

Recruitment roadshows and engagement

To facilitate this recruitment, Cleveland Fire Brigade is hosting recruitment roadshows at various fire stations, including Headland station in Hartlepool.

These events allow potential candidates to engage with current firefighters, learn about the role, and participate in activities.

The roadshows extend to Redcar, Guisborough, Skelton, Saltburn, Yarm, and Stockton fire stations, offering insights into the life and responsibilities of a firefighter​​​​.

Training and diversity

Candidates selected for the firefighter role will undergo extensive training over 36 months, including an apprenticeship.

This training will equip them with a range of skills necessary for emergency response and community safety education.

The Brigade emphasizes the importance of problem-solving, effective communication, and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The recruitment specifically encourages applications from minority groups, aiming to reflect the diversity of the communities they serve​​.

IFSJ Comment

The Cleveland Fire Brigade’s recruitment drive is a significant step towards strengthening community safety and fire prevention.

This initiative not only offers career opportunities but also highlights the evolving role of firefighters in modern society.

Firefighters today are not just emergency responders but also community educators and safety advocates.

By focusing on diversity and comprehensive training, the Brigade is set to build a team that is not only skilled in firefighting but also in understanding and serving the diverse needs of the community.

This recruitment drive is a reflection of the Brigade’s commitment to public safety and its adaptation to the changing dynamics of fire and rescue services.