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5
SUPPORTING
THE FIRE
CADETS
Livery companies have been involved in the
training and development of young people for
centuries. Apprentices were indentured to their
masters in order to learn the skills of their
particular trade. The livery companies set and
maintained the standards of their respective
trades and provided regulation. Education was a
cornerstone on which the trade or craft was built
and flourished.
For the last two years the WCoFF has supported
the Community Fire Cadets (CFC) programmes
developed and run by the London Fire Brigade
(LFB). The courses, which are seen as 'life-
changing', are for young people, many of whom
come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The
courses last for 15 months and include practical
firefighting skills, life safety and engagement with
the community.
The programme, which is very much in the
traditions of livery, enhances employment
opportunities in the fire service or elsewhere,
and can lead to a BTEC qualification.
On the completion of each CFC course, the
Master of the Company of Firefighters presents
an award for outstanding achievement to the top
cadet. The WCoFF's charitable trust, in
association with Bristol Uniforms, also buys the
personnel protection equipment for all cadets on
a CFC course being run by LFB in 2013.
The WCoFF Charitable Trust has also supported
education and training in Croydon by providing
junior fire kit for use by youngsters attending the
Croydon Fire Brigade training programme
'Crossfire', which aims to combat antisocial
behaviour among young people, such as fire-
setting, hoax calling and crime, promotes good
citizenship and personal safety.
During a Crossfire session, the best behaved
learners are able to dress in fire kit. Usually, this
involves the protective clothing belonging to the
officers delivering the session, but this time the
team were able to dress in brand new youth fire
kit donated by the WCoFF. Borough Commander
Chris Bigland said: “I am incredibly grateful to the
Worshipful Company of Firefighters for
recognising the work of this vital team. The gift
we received today will help us bring this crucial
learning to life.
Article abstracted with thanks from the magazine
Crisis Response Journal and was written by Past
Master Geoff Morgan.
Bryan Spearman of the WCoFF (above), in association with Bristol Uniforms, presented three
junior firefighting kits to David Gill of the Crossfire team. The kits will be used at all Crossfire
programmes across Croydon, UK.
Please support this major fund raising event by your presence.
The cost per head is £110 and is inclusive of the dinner dance, entertainment, reception drink
and ½ bottle of wine.
To reserve your places please send a deposit of £30 per head to:
Andy Phillips, Little Tors, School Road, Kelvendon Hatch, Essex, CM15 0DH
Cheques payable to “The Worshipful Company of Firefighters Charitable Trust”
Tables of 10 or individuals are all welcome.
You can also take advantage of a specially negotiated room rate for overnight accommodation
which includes breakfast, for Friday and Saturday nights at the Portman Hotel, Portman
Square, London W1H 7BG. The rate for a double room is £185 per night (£175 per night for
a single room). For room bookings please call the hotel on 0207 208 6000 and ask for
reservations and quote reference number 130920BRAN and the date of the event (21st
September 2013) and the name (Fire Industry Charity Ball).