Volunteering with Fire Cadets

The Fire Cadets programme is delivered by volunteer firefighters, other fire service staff and adults from the local community.There are many ways in which you can volunteer to help a Cadet Unit, from leading sessions, mentoring the young people or helping with the administration of the unit.

What experience and abilities do I need?

• You should be aged 18 or over
• Have an interest in helping young people develop and achieve their potential.
• The desire to develop and maintain positive relationships with young people
• Strong communication skills Please note that all volunteers will need to have an Enhanced DBS check completed prior to being involved with our Cadet Units.  

What is the commitment?

Fire Cadets meet for two hours, one evening a week at a local fire station during school term time. You will be part of a team rota but do not have to attend every week. Occasionally you will be involved with weekend events.You will also need to complete induction and other training courses to ensure you are well-equipped to deliver the programme and BTEC qualification.

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Volunteer stories

Hear what our Fire Cadet volunteers have to say…

The Fire Cadets programme is delivered by volunteer firefighters, non-operational fire service staff and adults from the local community.
There are a large number of different ways in which you can volunteer to help a Cadet Unit, from leading sessions, to being a role model and mentoring the young people or helping it the administration of the unit.

Name: Kim

Occupation: Ambulance Care Assistant

Fire Cadet volunteering role: Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor  

How long have you been a Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor?

“I joined at the end of September 2022 so only a few months and I’m very new to it, but so far I absolutely love it.”

Was the role recommended to you?

“Yes, I wanted to join the Fire Service and I was advised by existing firefighters that the cadets programme would open my eyes a bit more about what the service involves; whether it’s for me and how rewarding helping out the cadets can be.”

What are your responsibilities in the role?

“I help to supervise drill nights to make sure all activities are done safely. I also see it as part of my role to ensure the Fire Cadets are happy and confident in what they’re doing and that they feel comfortable asking any questions.”

What do you get out of volunteering with Fire Cadets?

“I’m so proud of them. I’ve never worked with children before but it’s so rewarding seeing them build their confidence up and come out of their shells. They are so polite and forward.”

What’s been your highlight so far?

“I supervised some of the Eastleigh Fire Cadets when they helped out at the Great South Run and I was so proud of them. They were initially assisting pedestrians with crossing the roads but towards the end we were in the last mile. Some of the runners were quite unwell at this point with sickness and even some fainting. The cadets helped and encouraged the runners to get to the finish line. We even walked the last 900 metres with the last 2 runners.”

Would you recommend this role to others and why?

“I would 100% recommend this role to others as it helps to make a difference and I only wish I’d known about and applied to do this sooner.”

Name: Josh

Occupation: Student

Fire Cadet volunteering role: Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor  

How long have you been a Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor?

“I officially started in September 2022, but I have previously supported the cadets. I did a HIWFRS Prince’s Trust course and during this we were based with the fire cadets for a week. The Fire Cadet Lead Alex then suggested and encouraged me to apply for the role.

At the time, I was thinking I wanted to join the police, but the Prince’s Trust course threw my ideas to the wind, and I then decided I wanted to join the fire service.  In just a few months this role has already given me more of an understanding of the fire service.”

What are your responsibilities and how are you finding it so far?

“The role includes supporting with fire-drill training as well as safeguarding the young people. I like the fact that I’m responsible for the teaching aspect and making sure all the cadets are all working safely and well together is quite satisfying. I’ve also learnt a lot about the Service, so the cadets are developing their skills at the same time I’m developing mine.”

What do you get out of volunteering with Fire Cadets?

“So far the role has increased my knowledge of the fire service so it will hopefully be a real stepping-stone towards a future career in the fire service.”

What’s been your highlight so far?

“Teaching and the drills are the most exciting part. The instructors got to learn BA (Breathing Apparatus) training at the same time as the Fire Cadets while the firefighters were teaching. The firefighters also gave real-life examples of scenarios when they’ve had to use the techniques and equipment, so this was definitely a highlight as it made everything more real.”

What difference do you think your volunteer role makes?

“I’d like to think I’m making a big difference. The Fire Cadets regularly support wider community events such as remembrance services etc. and as instructors we supervise and support them to attend these events. Hopefully the fire safety advice they learn will help to keep them safe in the future too.”

Would you recommend this role to others and why?

“Yes, I would, especially if they want to join one of the blue light services as it gives you a great insight into potential responsibilities.  You can also learn fire drills in a more relaxed environment, at a slower pace which can help to build confidence for the future.”