The National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) Celebrating Prevention and Protection Awards were held on Tuesday 14 November and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) Volunteer team were among this year’s finalists who were recognised for their achievements.
HIWFRS Volunteer Programme Manager Lee Joss who attended the awards, was delighted to be named as a finalist in the Outstanding Contribution category (see main picture).
“It was a lovely surprise to hear that I had been nominated in recognition of my contribution.
“To be recognised for the part I play within the HIWFRS Community Safety Team is very humbling as everyone works so hard to support not only each other, but also members of the public in our communities. Thank you so much! It’s made me feel both appreciated and valued.”
The awards celebrate the achievements of prevention and protection colleagues from fire and rescue services across the country and the ceremony was hosted by HIWFRS Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin.
Two HIWFRS volunteers were also recognised as finalists in the Volunteering award category.
Graham Urwin who has been volunteering with the Service for several years now said:
“I’m delighted. On a personal level I’m extremely proud that volunteering for the Service makes a positive contribution in our communities, and on another, I can see the Volunteer Award category means that our efforts are both recognised and valued, which is always very welcome”.
Volunteer Harry Finnis was highly commended in the volunteer category which he says he is ‘extremely grateful’ for.
“Being a finalist has given me a real sense of achievement and recognition for the volunteer work I do for the Service. I’m just as enthusiastic as I was when I first joined.
“I still find it hugely rewarding every time I complete a Safe and Well visit or attend a community event, helping to improve home fire safety for some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”
Find out more about the HIWFRS volunteer programme.