Meet Annie

Name: Annie

Occupation: Full time mum and student

What is your role as a HIWFRS volunteer?

“My role as a HIWFRS volunteer entails providing safety advice in the home, giving presentations to local community groups, attending local events and collecting and delivering equipment. I have visited various community faith groups and charity shops, to deliver flyers and letters of introduction.”

What inspired you to volunteer for the fire service?  

“The wide range of work the fire service do to support our society is mind blowing. I love the fact that HIWFRS not only protects the community, they also help people in so many other ways.”

What difference do you feel your time volunteering makes?

“To me volunteering means working with others to make a meaningful contribution towards a better community. Previously, I’ve volunteered for organisations that support refugees, people facing racial harassment, domestic violence and destitution, so I’ve seen first hand the difference volunteering can make to people’s lives.”

What do you get out of volunteering?

“Volunteering has been very rewarding, and I feel it gives me a real sense of belonging. I’m actively looking for work after being at home for some time due to health issues. Volunteering has really helped boost my self-esteem and confidence during this challenging time.”

What would you say to other people who might be considering applying to become a fire service volunteer? 

“I would encourage them to join as volunteering with HIWFRS has many benefits, not only to the community it serves but also for the individual volunteers themselves.”

Are there any particular highlights that stand out during your time volunteering with the fire service? 

“Absolutely – even wearing the uniform makes me feel very important, valued and respected by the community. I’ve been involved in some incredible activities. One memory which stands out as a highlight was when I took part in some fundraising at the football stadium. This was in support of firefighters raising awareness of mental health and well-being.

In my role as a HIWFRS volunteer, I’ve also supported the police with raising awareness around driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Helping people in the community has made me feel as though I’m making a real difference.”