More than 50 young people have been supported by an intervention programme designed to tackle anti-social fire setting.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service’s FireWise Programme has already worked with 52 youngsters up to the age of 18 since the start of 2022.
All those who have been helped had shown an unhealthy interest in, or had set, fires. But through the work of FireWise, their attitude towards fire safety has been tackled and changed.
FireWise lead, Melanie Owen, said:
“I love the challenge of working with young people who need extra support to break through any barriers they’ve built up.
“Seeing the progress the young people make and receiving feedback from parents about the difference the FireWise programme has made to their lives makes everything worthwhile.”
FireWise helps young people up to the age of 18 who:
- are considered to have an ‘unusual’ or ‘unhealthy’ fascination with fire
- have any other specific issue related to fire or fire-setting
The programme provides support by helping young people understand their feelings and the circumstances that lead to fire setting behaviour.
A variety of resources are used during the one-to-one sessions, that can either take place at home, or in school. Depending on the child’s age, a mixture of film clips, photographs and getting the young person to participate in games, songs and craft activities might be used.
Referrals can be made by a variety of people including parents, teachers, carers and the police.
Melanie adds:
“Often the referrals we receive are complex in nature, so we are proud to have already helped over 50 young people this year.”
If you know a young person who is showing an unhealthy interest in fire you can find out more about our Firewise programme and make a referral.
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