An on-call firefighter has joined our charity as an Engagement Rep to help spread the word about what we do and how his colleagues in neighbouring fire services can support us.
Jack Gillett is based at Burnham-On-Sea in Somerset and will travel round Fire and Rescue Services in the Southwest to share some of the ways we can support personnel and their families, on a temporary basis.
Jack followed in his family’s footsteps when he joined the fire service over two years ago, as his dad, Tim, is set to retire after 30 years with Devon & Somerset FRS, while his grandad, Brian, worked for 30 years with Avon FRS.
Jack’s dad (right) with ‘Zorba’ from London’s Burning
He says: “I want to be working in and around the fire service, in any way I can. I already knew about the fantastic support offered by the charity, so I wanted to find out more about being involved. This role sounded really interesting. It feels a real honour.”
Jack says that knowing first-hand the pressures of firefighting will help when engaging with others – particularly other on-call staff.
He adds: “I’m only 21 so I don’t have kids, so the shifts are manageable for me, but when you’ve been out at night, then into a day job, then out again, sleep is a big thing. I love it, and don’t find it too stressful, but I think the family stress is the biggest thing for many colleagues. What should be personal time doesn’t always materialise.
Jack’s Grandad (furthest left)
“It’s about making as many people as possible aware that there is support there for them and their families, through the charity. I’m really excited to get started.”
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