Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service to offer online information sessions for prospective firefighters

To support an upcoming recruitment drive, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) is encouraging people across the North East to attend online information sessions to find out more about a career in fire and rescue.

Ahead of previous recruitment campaigns, TWFRS has invited would-be firefighters to its stations to offer an insight into the role, the selection process and the training course. This time, the Service will instead be sharing this information digitally due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The TWFRS website has been updated to include detailed guidance for applicants and videos that demonstrate the practical tests involved in the selection process, as well as elements of the training course.

In addition, potential applicants can also attend information sessions that include a presentation from current firefighters, recruitment team members and training centre instructors. These sessions will be hosted using Microsoft Teams so that attendees can have their questions answered using the live chat feature.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Lynsey McVay explained: “We know that people who are interested in becoming firefighters find our usual “taster sessions” very useful. They offer a real insight into the reality of the job, from responding to fires, road traffic collisions and other emergencies to working with schools and community groups to help keep people safe.

“Although the current restrictions mean we’re not able to deliver these sessions in the usual way, carrying them out virtually means that we can open them up to more people – there are unlimited places available and you can take part from the comfort of your own home.”

There are six sessions planned to take place over the next couple of weeks, with a full list of times and dates available on the TWFRS website: www.twfire.gov.uk/firefighter

ACO McVay continued: “The online sessions are ideal for anyone who has considered applying to be a firefighter, but isn’t sure that it’s the right career for them.

“If you want to make a real contribution to your community, like to work in a team and enjoy keeping physically fit, I’d encourage you to join one of the online sessions. The variety of the role and progression opportunities available make becoming a firefighter a great career choice for everyone – regardless of age, gender or ethnicity.”

Recruitment opens on 26 October, with a training course planned for April 2021.