Volunteer cadet leaders needed to support future firefighters in Northern Ireland

NIFRS calls for new cadet leaders to train future firefighters

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has launched a recruitment campaign for Volunteer Cadet Leaders to support its youth engagement work in Bangor.

According to NIFRS, successful candidates will deliver training and guidance to 14 to 17-year-olds enrolled in the NIFRS Cadet Scheme.

The organisation said the programme aims to develop skills in areas such as first aid, team-building and fire safety.

Volunteer Cadet Leaders will also attend public events alongside cadets and support community engagement activities.

NIFRS stated that full training, uniform, support and out-of-pocket expenses will be provided to all volunteers.

Eligibility criteria and role requirements

NIFRS said the role is open to anyone aged 18 or over with an interest in supporting young people.

The organisation clarified that prior fire service experience is not necessary.

Applicants must complete an application form, attend an interview, and provide references before being accepted.

Volunteers will also be required to complete an Access NI check, child protection training, and a full induction process.

The role involves attending local fire stations and working as part of a team to deliver planned activities.

Locations and programme structure

According to NIFRS, Volunteer Cadet Leaders are being sought for multiple locations, including Bangor, Belfast, Cookstown, Lisburn and Newry.

Cadet activities take place at local fire stations and are designed to help young people gain experience and skills in a structured, supervised setting.

The service said the cadet programme raises awareness of fire and rescue operations while supporting personal development.

Each leader will support a diverse group of participants from different backgrounds and communities.

Leaders are expected to act as role models and to deliver sessions on hose running, communication, fire safety, and leadership skills.

Insights from current cadet leaders

NIFRS highlighted a testimonial from Katey McBride, a Volunteer Cadet Leader in Bangor, who reflected on the experience of working with young people.

She said: “It’s so rewarding encouraging our young people to gain confidence and self-belief. They leave the scheme as ambassadors for NIFRS in their communities.”

She added: “I encourage others to volunteer. It arms you with so many life skills and gives great insight into our Fire & Rescue Service for those interested in a career.”

The service said testimonials from current volunteers show that the programme benefits both participants and leaders.

Application process and next steps

NIFRS confirmed that applications are now open for the Volunteer Cadet Leader roles.

Interested applicants are encouraged to email [email protected] with the subject line “Cadet Leader”.

The service stated that volunteers will receive support from a designated role manager.

All uniforms and identity cards will be issued following successful completion of onboarding checks and training.

Cadet Leaders will be reimbursed for any pre-approved expenses incurred during volunteering activities.

Volunteer cadet leaders needed to support future firefighters in Northern Ireland: Summary

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) is recruiting Volunteer Cadet Leaders.

The roles support the Cadet Scheme for young people aged 14 to 17.

The initiative includes first aid, fire safety, and public event participation.

Volunteers must be aged 18 or over.

Prior fire service experience is not required.

Roles are available in Bangor, Belfast, Cookstown, Lisburn and Newry.

Applicants will undergo training, child protection checks and interviews.

NIFRS provides uniforms, support and reimburses pre-agreed expenses.

Volunteer Cadet Leaders serve as role models and deliver planned activities.

Applications should be submitted to [email protected].