Shout! Summer 2018

Issue 18 Summer 2018

Official magazine of The Fire Fighters Charity

www.firefighterscharity.org.uk

#My75Miles Can you go the distance to mark our 75th anniversary?

London Marathon

Meet and support our runners

Sleep tight

Top tips for a great night’s kip

Editorial country. Since that day in August 1943, the Fund has grown and evolved, first becoming The Fire Services National Benevolent Fund and latterly The Fire Fighters Charity.

Welcome to the Summer 2018 issue of Shout! This is a special year for us as it marks 75 years since the formation of The Fire Services National Benevolent Fund, its aim in 1943 being to exist as a single national body, providing welfare support to the nation’s firefighters and their families.

As 2017’s tragic events at Grenfell Tower, at Manchester Arena and in London so starkly reminded us, the selfless dedication of our fire services today is just as evident and remarkable as it was during the darkest days of World War II. What is equally inspirational, however, is the desire of the British public to support their fire and rescue services at times of adversity. Had it not been for such an outpouring of generosity in the 1940s, we wouldn’t be here today and, as we saw last year, the public continue to support their everyday heroes by fundraising and donating towards us.

It followed the establishment of numerous independent funds, formed through the generosity of the British people to support the families of firefighters killed during the Second World War. The new unified Fund brought all these separate pots together, to provide a fair means through which the monies could be spent and firefighters supported, wherever they were across the

It’s in this spirit of togetherness that we have launched #My75Miles this year, an event that is open to everyone, whether linked to the fire services community or not and whatever their level of fitness. The concept is such a simple one; complete 75 miles any way you wish before the end of the year and raise a minimum of £75 along the way. I’ll be taking part and I’m sure many of our employees and

volunteers will also be taking on their own 75 miles challenges. There’s plenty of information in this issue of Shout! and online about #My75Miles, so join the challenge and have fun with it. It’s the perfect way to show your support of the fire services community in our 75th year.

Elsewhere in this issue of Shout! you can find out about the inspirational men and women who will be running this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon for us. We’ve also published links to their fundraising pages, so you can help your local runner to reach his or her fundraising goal. As ever, you’ll also be able to read the incredible stories of some of our beneficiaries and there are all the usual columns and features, hopefully offering something for everyone over the coming pages.

Enjoy the magazine and thanks once again for your incredible support.

Dr Jill Tolfrey Chief Executive

Contents 4 Shout! about it

All the latest news from The Fire Fighters Charity

6 Events

Find out what’s going on this year and how to take part

7 @FFC

Tweets, posts, likes and shares

9 The Flame

Our anonymous fundraiser discusses his past challenges and plans for #My75Miles

10 Team Work

Meet Physiotherapist, Louise Cannon, who aims to include as many beneficiaries in her #My75Miles plans as possible

13 #My75Miles

More about our year-long fundraising challenge in celebration of our 75th anniversary

16 Meet our 75Milers

Get to know a handful of our 75Milers and their reasons for signing up

18 Thank You and Good Luck

A special mention to the runners, riders, swimmers and climbers who raise money for the Charity

20 Commercial update

Take a break at Harcombe House this summer and new personalised products from Elvis and Kresse

25 Our History

We look back at the origins of the Charity and notable moments from the last 75 years

28 Getting Back on Track

33 Catch Some ZZZ’s

Psychological Therapist, AJ Whitaker, on the importance of a good night’s kip and how to improve your sleep quality

36 Let’s Do Lunch

Harcombe House Exercise Therapist, Rob Smith, gives his tips on making a healthy packed lunch

37 Men’s Health

Registered General Nurse, Cassie Harrison, talks through the symptoms of prostate cancer

Firefighter, Dean Pounder, explains how the Charity aided his recovery following surgery

38 Shout+

30 London Marathon

42 Competition

Meet the team of runners braving the iconic marathon in aid of the Charity.

News and information for the retired community Enter to win a bundle of Autoglym car care products worth £130.

32 Spinal Cord Injuries Week

Nursing Services Lead, Kath Savage, discusses the support programme developed for beneficiaries with spinal cord injuries

Registered Office: The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6, Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. Charity registered in England & Wales (1093387) and Scotland (SC040096) Disclaimer: The Fire Fighters Charity believe that the information given in this magazine is correct at the time of going to print. We cannot accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions. The opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the writers and not always that of the Charity. Where external links are provided – to other websites or social media accounts – we do not endorse the content carried on these sites and readers visiting them do so at their own risk. Although all advertising is expected to conform to the appropriate advertising standards, inclusion or insertion of such material in this magazine does not constitute a guarantee or endorsement on The Fire Fighters Charity’s behalf of the quality or value of any products or of the claims made for them by the advertiser. Readers are advised to verify product information with the advertiser.

Shout! about it

Contact the editorial team on shout@firefighterscharity.org.uk or 01256 366566

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NEWS

Shout! about it Here’s where you’ll find out what we’ve been working on, where, why, with whom and what for within The Fire Fighters Charity. We’re always on the look-out for interesting stories and if you’ve got something newsworthy that you’d like to Shout! about, let us know: shout@firefighterscharity.org.uk

Harcombe House Recovery Centre Following the successful bid for funds from the last LIBOR awards, planning has started to increase The Fire Fighters Charity’s capability to support beneficiaries with poor mental health.

Explaining the new development plans, Chief Executive Dr Jill Tolfrey said: “As you may know, increasing support for mental health is a key theme in our 2017-2020 Strategic Plan, and we want to establish Harcombe House as a dedicated site to support mental health and social well-being for members of the fire service community.

“In terms of the practical process, one project team is focusing on refurbishment and developing the environment, and a second project team is focused on innovative service development, implementation and evaluation.

We are working towards a formal opening in late Spring 2019.

“This is a great opportunity and exciting time for our Charity; the Trustees and Senior Leadership Team are looking forward to working with everyone involved in making this happen.”

“Our aspiration is that the Harcombe House Recovery Centre will support individuals, couples and families, working together to improve mental health and, equally as important - social wellbeing. We want to work with beneficiaries to enable coping with everyday stresses as well as enabling them to be able to make a positive contribution to the community – whether that is about returning to operational duties, living better with the experiences of a career in the fire and rescue service, or just simply ‘being in a better place’ as an individual, couple or family.

Spirit of Fire returns this summer The Spirit of Fire Awards has long been a highly anticipated and popular event, recognising the incredible hard work, dedication and support for The Fire Fighters Charity by members of the fire service community.

Having taken a break for a couple of years, the prestigious awards ceremony returns this summer with awards across 10 categories.

Dr Jill Tolfrey, Chief Executive of The Fire Fighters Charity, said of The Spirit of Fire Awards: “We’re delighted to be holding a Spirit of Fire event in our 75th anniversary year and are grateful to everyone who has contributed during the nominations process. The awards are an opportunity to ensure that an individual or team get the special recognition they deserve for all that they have achieved in supporting us since the last Charity awards event in 2015.

The ceremony will be a daytime event held on Thursday 21 June.

Nominees and their guests will be invited to attend a more intimate awards ceremony than in previous years, held in a central London venue and followed by a Downing Street reception.

AGM sees new Trustees confirmed The Fire Fighters Charity Annual General Meeting – attended by Trustees, Company Members and the Senior Leadership Team – was held in November of last year. The event saw the voting in of two new trustees and the reappointment of existing trustees.

Dr Rowena Hill, Principal Lecturer at Nottingham Trent University and Harvey Grenville, Head of Investigations and Enforcement at the Charity Commission, became our newest trustees, while Andy Hickmott, CFO Warwickshire; Chris Wilson, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service; Roddy MacLeod, advocate at the Scottish Bar and former retained firefighter, and Andrew Lynch, Editor of Fire Magazine and Chair, were all re-elected to the Trustee Board.

“This aspiration for Harcombe House extends well beyond this initial funding award, as we are seeking to develop a ‘centre of excellence’, providing research and evidence based support and innovative approaches to improve the health and well-being of the fire community.

Shout!

NEWS

News Shorts...

London crew’s marathon effort “This was a hugely traumatic event for everyone involved, both physically and emotionally. We are fundraising for The Fire Fighters Charity which has provided ongoing support to firefighters who attended the Grenfell fire and supports thousands of firefighters across the UK each year.

Medicash cash boost

Medicash, a provider of healthcare and cash plans has donated to The Fire Fighters Charity from The Medicash Charitable Trust to fund an electric hoist and standing aid to be used at the Jubilee House centre.

Nicky Patton, Rehabilitation Services Lead at The Fire Fighters Charity said: “This new equipment will make a huge difference to the nursing and rehabilitation staff at Jubilee House and to our beneficiaries. We know that our beneficiaries benefit hugely – both physically and psychologically – when their mobility is maintained and we are extremely grateful to Medicash for giving us the funding to pay for it.”

Andy Abernethy, Marketing Manager of Medicash added: “The Fire Fighters Charity performs important work for thousands of people who have served our communities. We are pleased to have been able to pay for this equipment which will improve their quality of life and make the nursing staff’s work easier.”

2016/17 Impact Report published

“We’re passionate about making sure money goes to the people who need it most so we’re also fundraising for two small charities, the Harrow Club and the Rugby Portobello Trust, which are dedicated to supporting local people in the Grenfell community.

A group of nine firefighters who attended the Grenfell Tower blaze are set to run the London Marathon in a bid to raise funds for groups who are supporting local people affected by the fire as well as to support The Fire Fighters Charity.

The firefighters are from the Red Watch at Paddington Fire Station and were amongst the first to arrive on the scene of the Grenfell Tower fire. The crew are taking part in the Marathon in full firefighting gear, including breathing apparatus.

Crew Manager Martin Gillam from Paddington Fire Station said:

“We are running in full firefighting gear and breathing apparatus, which is no mean feat as it adds an extra 30kgs of weight, which is roughly the same weight as a Dalmatian dog! It will definitely slow us down but we’re determined to finish the race as quickly as possible.”

In total there will be 53 London firefighters running the Marathon including another crew from North Kensington Fire Station who are also raising money to support the community affected by the Grenfell Tower fire.

You can follow updates from the crew and find links to support them on Twitter @A21Run4Grenfell. You can read more about all the other runners taking on the London Marathon to support us on page 30 of this issue.

Record January recycling results It was another record year for the Charity’s Bag It and Bank It Recycling Championship which generated £56,728 from textile recycling in January.

The total amount collected was a massive 269 tonnes which was over 20% more than last year’s total and the most that has ever been generated from just one month of textile donations.

Published at the AGM on 9 November 2017, our 2016/17 Impact Report includes details of the people supported throughout the year and how they were helped. It also features some of the many fundraising highlights and case study stories from those whose lives the Charity impacted across a year that marked the end of the 2015-17 Strategic Plan and set the course for a new Strategic Plan for the coming three years. You can view the report on our website by going to www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/ impact17.

Kevin Biles, The Fire Fighters Charity Sales Manager who runs the recycling programme said of the results: “We want to thank everyone Donations were collected from 755 fire stations who donated clothing to our textile recycling across the UK, the weight collected from each banks and all the fire service staff who helped was totalled up and the Bag it and Bank it to promote textile recycling in their community.

Champions for 2018 were: England Champions: Egremont Fire Station in Cumbria, 11,334 kg Wales Champions: Treharris Fire Station in South Wales, 760 kg Scotland Champions: Bishopbriggs Fire Station in Strathclyde, 730 kg Each of the winning stations received the coveted Rag Trophy and hamper full of tasty treats for their station.

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“We also wanted to include a special mention for Bingham Fire Station. Sometimes it’s not possible to place a permanent textile recycling bank outside a fire station but this didn’t stop Gerry Williscroft and the crew from Bingham taking part. They put the word out to their local community and collected clothing at their station throughout January and achieved an amazing total of 1,680 kg putting them in 4th place in England! An amazing effort by the crew and community, thank you.”

EVENTS DIARY

Events

Save the date

Whether you run, walk, cycle or bake, there’s bound to be a fundraising event for you this year, here are just a few...

24 to 29 June 2018: Three Peaks Challenge Details: The UK Fire Service’s largest sporting event of the year will test not only your fitness but also your physical and mental toughness. This is a mountain endurance challenge in which participants attempt to climb the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales consecutively within 24 hours, including travel between the three peaks.

How to enter: Register your interest online at www.firefighterscharity.org. uk/3peaks Entry cost: £100 per team (4-9 walkers) Minimum fundraise: £300 for fire and rescue service teams £350 for other emergency service teams £400 for all other teams

Glasgow – 19 & 20 May London – 9 & 10 June Liverpool – 14 & 15 July: Nightrider 2018 Details: Join the iconic, fun, and quirky charity night bike ride in Glasgow, London or Liverpool and explore a city’s top sights, latest attractions and famous landmarks.

This is a charity ride with a difference… it’s at night and it isn’t timed. It’s all about having a good time together, seeing

the sights and raising funds.

You can choose either a 50km or 100km route.

How to enter: Register via our website at www. firefighterscharity.org.uk/ nightrider2018

23 September 2018: Baxters Loch Ness Marathon Details: Quite possibly one of the most stunning marathons in the world, with spectacular scenery, a fantastic atmosphere and a truly memorable experience, this race is on the bucket list for many runners from

around the world.

How to enter: Visit www. firefighterscharity.org.uk/ lochness Registration fee: £75 Minimum fundraise: £300

22 September 2018: Marathon Walk London 2018 Details: Join us for this year’s marathon walk around London, taking in some of the capital’s iconic sights and less-visited corners.

How to enter: Register via our website at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/ marathonwalk

Entry cost: £39 Minimum fundraise: £175

Shout!

Registration fee: Marathon £29, Half Marathon £25 Minimum fundraise: Marathon £80, Half Marathon £50

SOCIAL LIVES

FFC

We love hearing about all the incredible things you do to support us and the experience of those who we’ve been able to support. We’d love to mention and thank you all, but it would fill up the entire magazine. Instead, here’s a brief selection of your recent comments on our social media channels – do make sure you get in touch via Twitter (@firefighters999) or Facebook (/thefirefighterscharity).

Tweet relief Susan Kerr @FergieKerr Thank you to @policescotland for stopping by and supporting us! @AndyHunter84 @FFC_ScotsandNE @fire_scot @firefighters999

Adrian Willard

Lewis Jeffery

Alex Hume

Back at @ firefighters999 this week for more #rehab.

Thank you all for the fantastic work that you do. #bestjobintheworld #bestsupportintheworld

Good day at @ firefighters999 Jubilee House today, a fantastic centre with excellent facilities & staff. Good to run into a familiar face

First full day completed @ firefighters999 Jubilee House, excellent facilities and staff. Early bed tonight though

@adewillard

@Lewis_Jeffery

Hants Response Cops

@HCResponseCops

Just dropped off some old clothes off duty to support #TheFireFighters Charity @Lyndhurst48.

Supporting the #999Family @hfrs_control @Hants_fire

@HumeAlex

Stamford Hill Police @MPSStamford Hill Guess where #FFBlazeBear and #PCEdwardWalker are #StamfordHill! Yes, they’ve only just returned from @lfbhackney. We will give @PCEdwardWalker a day or two to show #FFBlazeBear around to get settled. #EddyMeetsTheMet #BlazeBearMeetsTheMet @UK_COPS @firefighters999

Face to face Christopher Neil Maclennan 5th January

Claire Louise Bryan 29 October 2017

Thank you to everyone at Jubilee House, helping rebuild my confidence, life and shoulder.

Can’t thank everyone at Marine Court (Littlehampton) enough for a wonderful week of rest and recuperation with my family.

Chris Edge 14 November 2017

Ben Sanderson 12 December 2017

Amazing staff and brilliant facilities. Well on my way to recovery. Thank you all the team at Marine Court.

I cannot thank the Charity and its dedicated staff enough for all they do to help injured firefighters and their families back to full strength... Feeling massively humbled and grateful. Oh and tired lol

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Ann Trobe 10 November 2017

Amazing facility with outstanding staff and resources... helped me recover towards getting my life back to normality... I have nothing but the highest praise and have met some fantastic people along the way.

I can’t praise it enough... thank you.

Neal Hoare 2 February 2018

Just returned from a 4 day course at Marine Court. This has been my second visit now .. Excellent place, great staff.

Really helped me. A big thank you

MEET THE TEAM

From 5km to #My75Miles

By Flame, anonymous super-fundraiser for The Fire Fighters Charity

#

My75Miles for The Fire Fighters Charity has given me the inspiration to dust off the kit, see if it all still fits and get back training for my own 75 mile challenge, hopefully joining thousands of other challengers across the UK doing their #My75Miles.

First of all it’s important to tell you, I am not a firefighter, but a supporter of The Fire Fighters Charity. I have the upmost respect for the work and commitment that every single member of our fire and rescue services undertakes on a daily basis - across all areas of the service, from support staff to control room staff, to firefighters out there saving lives. That’s why I want to raise money through #My75Miles and challenge myself to do something special for The Fire Fighters Charity.

I really wanted to undertake a number of challenges that would help me to understand even a fraction of what it feels like to put your body to the test in the way that firefighters do when wearing full kit, including breathing apparatus. So from 2015-2017, with some amazing support from a small group of friends and a number of companies, my identity was concealed behind a mirrored helmet and I became ‘Flame.’

Starting off with a modest 5km Park Run, I then climbed Ben Nevis in six hours. Helped by some one-to-one training with former professional footballer Matt Le Tissier, I edged up to a 10km run, but my favourite challenge of all saw me join forces with Team Snowdon.

Our five-strong team endured a 10-hour climb up and down the summit. With two of us in full kit and another one of the

Fast forward 12 months and team climbing with crutches after a long rest I have grabbed after being diagnosed with an my kit again and started training aggressive form of cancer. to take part in #My75Miles.

Sheer determination and As this year is the 75th courage made it anniversary of the a very special Charity, I want to challenge and be part of it and saw a team “I have the upmost come up with of strangers respect for the work my own version - now the and commitment of a 75 mile best of that every single challenge. It friends member of our fire will require a coming and rescue services lot of training, together for undertakes on a a lot of hours the Charity. daily basis” and a lot of Over the two endurance, but I just years, many love the idea of being more mountain and part of something really big running challenges ensued in for The Fire Fighters Charity and my Flame firefighter kit and I hope to raise a lot more money I raised more than £4,200 by the end of the year. for The Fire Fighters Charity.

Watch this space and follow I ended by completing the me on Facebook and Twitter Brighton Marathon and a last (@theflame999), but also don’t mountain challenge climbing forget to sign up for your own 16 mountains in 24 hours in the #My75Miles.

Lake District.

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MEET THE TEAM

Rising to the challenge

By Louise Cannon, Physiotherapist, The Fire Fighters Charity

I

n April 2018 I will have been working for The Fire Fighters Charity for five years. However, my links with the Charity really started when I was little and my Dad was medically retired from the Service. In addition to half the watch ‘doing up’ our new house (we had been living in one of the Fire Station houses), we also had a recuperation trip to Marine Court and my first ever trip to London. Exciting times when you are five! Maybe not so much for my Dad, but I was certainly well protected from any of those concerns. Even then I realised that being a firefighter was so much more than a job. Like any disciplined profession it was evident to me that it has a strong identity and a community. It was always something I was proud of. My dad was a firefighter, so when an opportunity arose to work at Jubilee House as a

Physiotherapist, I didn’t need to think twice.

I work primarily with beneficiaries that have a neurological condition or complex needs.

This can be lots of things from stroke, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury, amongst others.

They are a brilliant bunch to work with, highly motivated, hardworking and funny. They demand a lot from themselves and likewise from me. They want me to challenge them, make life hard for them and help me maximise their abilities. In fact getting them to slow down is one of my hardest jobs. Often for our beneficiaries living with their conditions, one of their biggest issues is being told what they cannot do. It is my job to help them know what they can do and that is an immeasurably satisfying part of my job. For some that may be learning to stand again, get in and out of

following week’s group to match. bed independently, walk, cycle There are many characteristics or run! evident in those people who Last year I ran the London have worked in the fire fighting Marathon for the Charity. community; qualities However, this year it that I greatly is our intention to admire including harness this “They are determination, beneficiary independence group’s a brilliant and energy bunch to work teamwork. for the with, highly That is #My75Miles why I can campaign, motivated, confidently celebrating hardworking say I’m sure 75 years of and funny” that despite the Charity. the challenges Our aim is to our beneficiaries cumulatively walk/ face on a daily basis, push/swim our way to they will rise to this challenge 75 miles over the year. The goal and support us to achieve this is that every beneficiary in our massive goal. It would be lovely group who wants to be involved to think that every step made, is supported to move as much every push achieved and every as they can independently length swam can help us raise over their stay. Adding up the funds to maintain this fantastic totals at the end of the week service we offer our amazing and perhaps creating some beneficiaries! healthy competition for the

Shout!

Make a difference with a monthly donation

We make a life changing difference to thousands of people in the fire service community every year. This wouldn’t be possible without the people who give regular monthly donations.

Please consider setting up a regular monthly donation so we can continue to be there for those that are in need within our fire and rescue community.

Set up your monthly donation today at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/regulargiving

Copyright Š 2018 The Fire Fighters Charity. All Rights Reserved. The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6. Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. Registered charity in England and Wales (No. 1093387) and Scotland (SC040096) Royal Patron Her Majesty The Queen

Have you registered your #My75Miles challenge? If not, here’s all you need to know to get involved in our year-long self-propelled extravaganza.

Shout!

S

ince the start of the year people up and down the country have been signing up to take part in #My75Miles, an epic, multi-disciplined and all inclusive year-long event that forms the cornerstone of our fundraising efforts for our 75th anniversary year.

The premise is a simple one; complete 75 miles any way you wish before 31 December, 2018, and raise a minimum of £75 along the way.

Whatever form of selfpropulsion you prefer, there are an endless number of ways you can run, walk, swim, cycle, scoot, rollerskate,

skateboard, hop, pogo-stick or orienteer your way to 75 miles. We can provide you with all the tools you need – through a dedicated website – to help you fundraise and promote your challenge amongst your family, friends and colleagues. Where you go, who with and for how long is entirely up to you.

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So, how do you get involved?

Here’s all you need to know.

DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT TO DO So you’ve decided that you’d like to join the #My75Miles collective. Now’s the time to decide what you want to do to complete your miles. You can take on the challenge individually or as part of a team, or you could do both. There’s also no limit to the number of times you could enter over the course of the year. You could, for example, complete a personal challenge by running 75 miles yourself, or join a team of colleagues to run 75 miles between you. You could also follow that up with another challenge later in the year to cycle the distance, or join a different team to swim 75 miles.

Running and walking 75 miles are popular choices, but don’t forget that your imagination is the only limit in regards to your options for how you complete the distance. You could do it in fancy dress, three-legged, in BA kit, dressed as a pantomime horse, in a wheelbarrow, carrying a ladder or on a unicycle whilst juggling. So get creative and have fun with it.

REGISTER ONLINE The first step to your #My75Miles challenge is to register online and, in so doing, create your free personalised fundraising page.

Visit www.firefighterscharity. org.uk/my75miles and click ‘REGISTER’ to get going.

The registration process gives you the choice to sign up through Facebook, Strava, MapMyFitness or with your email. If you have either a Strava or MapMyFitness account, you may want to consider these options as doing so will allow your Strava and MapMyFitness activities to be tracked against your individual challenge. In other words, the miles you clock up on Strava or MapMyFitness

will be automatically linked to your challenge. Registering using your email address does also allow you to track your progress, but activities will need to be input manually on your challenge page.

Whether you register through your fitness tracker accounts or via email, you’ll need to complete a few contact details and will have the opportunity to add your story – or adapt the example given – for your fundraising page. Here’s where you can share the reasons behind your challenge. Why are you taking it on? What does raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity mean to you?

Let your potential donors know.

PERFECT YOUR PAGE Your fundraising page is your shop window. Here’s where you can keep in touch with your donors, blog about your activities and share your photos with those following you. You can also keep track of new donations when they come in and see how close to your fundraising target you are. So spend some time on your profile page and be sure to personalise it; add a profile photo, write regular blog updates, share photos, add activities as you do them, clock your miles and thank those who have donated to you.

GET SOCIAL WITH IT Your Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts are a great way to share your progress.

Use them to tell your friends, family and followers about your challenge and to keep them up to date with your progress. You can post links to your fundraising page and share the updates on your progress. We have also pulled together a wealth of social media tips and graphics for you to use as well. Simply visit www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/ My75Miles and find all the links on the ‘About event’ page.

Shout!

ENCOURAGE OTHERS #My75Miles has been designed to be achievable for everyone as there are no rules to how it can be completed. We’re also keen for as many people as possible to take part, from within the fire services community and from outside of it as well.

So if you’ve signed up to take on your own challenge, why not encourage your friends and colleagues to do the same?

You could also encourage your family, fellow watch members or close friends to take part as a team. Whatever their age or level of fitness, #My75Miles is achievable for them.

The more people who take part in #My75Miles this year, the more money we can hopefully raise to support our fire services community during their times of need. Again, use your social media to thank all your donors and, when you do, why not encourage them to take part in the event as well. You could even challenge them to a #My75Miles race, who can get there first?

WHY #My75Miles MATTERS Your 75 miles will be a personal journey, but by undertaking it you will be helping thousands of others on their journey of recovery from injury, illness or psychological trauma.

The money raised over the course of 2018 from every 75 mile challenge undertaken will help us to directly fund our services, meaning that every mile run, walked, swum, cycled, hopped, skipped or jumped will make a life changing difference to someone.

It costs around £8.5m a year to fund all that we do, with the vast majority of that income coming directly from the generous donations of our supporters in and across the fire community.

However, we want to raise more in order to do more and our 75th anniversary year is the perfect time to push our ambition further.

Every £25 raised will, for instance, pay for one beneficiary to access a one-to-one psychological support session. So, by reaching your £75 minimum fundraising target, you’ll be allowing three people to talk through the psychological impact of their work or experiences with a professional who can support them in identifying ways to help deal with the challenges they face.

Every £25 above that total, meanwhile, could pay for one more person to receive the same. It’s simple, the more your donors support you, the more money you raise and the more people we help.

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This is #MY75MILES

Meet our 75Milers

Kim Robson

Hannah Poole

Kim was joined by our very own Blaze Bear when she started her #My75Miles journey – on the Nordic Cross Country Ski Trail at Big White, Canada - and tells us why she has signed up for #My75Miles.

Hannah started her #My75Miles journey with a series of mini challenges and explains why she is taking on #My75Miles.

“My boyfriend John is a firefighter with Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, so I know all about the amazing work of this Charity.

“Two years ago, whilst skiing, I ruptured my ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and required surgery and rehabilitation, and was fortunate enough to spend two weeks at Marine Court, The Fire Fighters Charity rehabilitation centre in Littlehampton. Without this opportunity and the support I received I have no doubt my recovery from injury would have taken far longer.

“It’s my turn to thank them for everything they have done, and will continue to do for firefighters and their families in the years to come.”

“I am a firefighter in Kent, a job I love and I am very proud of.

Although I personally, have never needed to use the amazing services The Fire Fighters Charity offer, I know plenty of colleagues who have and everyone of them cannot recommend the service and support they have received highly enough.

“Knowing this is something which will be available to myself and my dependants for the duration of our lives is incredible and provides a great comfort to me. I believe strongly in this Charity and wish to support it in any way I can, so I will do #My75Miles in celebration of their 75th year along with my lovely friends who are coming along for the ride.

“I am thinking up challenges as I go along. I will definitely be doing a #My75Miles bike ride at some point in the next few months which will be an all in one day event but I’d like to also do mini challenges.

For example I regularly attend Zumba classes so will do 75 hours of Zumba. I surf so will do that too and will run 75 miles over a period of a month. I was thinking of running out 75 miles of fire hose but need to work that one out.”

Shout!

To mark our 75th anniversary, we’re challenging you to take on your own 75 mile challenge to help support members of the fire services community in need. The distance is set, but how you get there is completely up to you.

Here are four very different stories telling us how and why #My75Miles will be on their agenda this year.

Damian Walker

Karen Plowman

Damian retired from service 18 years ago and is looking forward to smashing his #My75Miles training target.

Karen is setting her own pace by walking her #My75Miles challenge all while raising funds and awareness for our Charity.

“At 64 years of age I am slowly getting fit again. I lost two lobes of my right lung to a malignant carcinoid tumour so I needed a training target to cycle towards and 75 miles seemed a good one. At 4 months post-op I can manage approximately 10 km in one ride but I hope to increase this soon.

“My son Josh is an on call firefighter for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and I am inspired by the selfless dedication of the fire fighters community. I am so glad the Charity is doing the #My75Miles challenge as I have scoliosis and can’t walk very far to participate in normal sponsored walks, but being able to do the 75 miles in my own time means I can reach my goal little by little. My aim is to raise as much money as I can for firefighters affected by injury, illness or psychological trauma.”

The Fire Fighters Charity is exceptional and helped my wife Jenny at Jubilee House in Penrith, after her first back surgery.

With selfless dedication, the Charity always responds swiftly to any call for help. I want to support them by raising money with my #My75Miles road to personal fitness.”

Join our 75Milers by registering at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/my75miles

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THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK

Fundraising focus There are so many people taking on amazing challenges to raise money for the Charity. Here we say thank you to just a few of those who’ve already completed their challenges, and wish the best of luck to those about to!

Thank you...

Christmas Fundraising

Ben’s Mount Kilimanjaro Trek 2017

Teams of volunteers from fire stations all over the country raised a staggering £112,125 in total from collections in the run up to Christmas.

Ben Spalding, a firefighter for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, travelled to Africa last September to climb 19,341ft above sea level to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Organising small fundraisers beforehand to help him reach his £3,500 target, Ben took part in a 10km fireman’s lift using a manikin, and sported a shaved head and eyebrows. Thanks Ben for your impressive dedication.

Regional activities included Basingstoke firefighters serenading customers at the local John Lewis store, and staff from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service packing bags in Tesco, Gilesgate.

Manchester Fire Recruits The new recruits for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service completed a 5km walk in Manchester City Centre in full fire kit and breathing apparatus, raising £3000 and awareness of the Charity in the process. That’s one way to get stuck into your new roles!

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THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK

Good luck...

100 Miles to Marine Court Skydivers

Rugby World Record Attempt A team made up of mainly fire and rescue service personnel are once again attempting to beat the Guinness World Record for the longest game of rugby by playing for a gruelling 32 hours. They unfortunately missed out on the record last year due to a technical issue with the camera equipment but they are ready to take on the challenge again, playing against the same team, military charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers.

Three firefighters from Green Watch, Bishops Stortford Fire Station are embarking on a 100 mile run from their hometown in Hertfordshire to our Marine Court centre in Littlehampton, West Sussex. Matt, Dean and Adam aim to complete their challenge within 24 hours on Thursday 14 June and hope to raise £1,000.

You can show your support here: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/100miles2MarineCourt

The attempt takes place at Sixways Stadium, Worcester on the 4-5 of May and our team is aiming to raise £10,000. Best of luck to everyone involved.

If you would like to sponsor the team head to: www.justgiving.com/companyteams/ RugbyRecordFire

Firefighting Fundraisers The South Wales Firefighting Fundraisers raised more than £5000 by taking part in three huge events last year, including the Cardiff Half Marathon, and a ladder climb equalling the height of Mount Everest. A special mention goes to Rich Fuller for taking on the Deca Ironman Triathlon which consisted of 24 miles of swimming, 1120 miles of cycling and 262 miles of running in just ten days.

Richard Allen Richard Allen visited Yaxley Fire Station to present a cheque worth £841.39 to the Charity after he held an ice hockey match in memory of his son Stuart, who sadly passed away in 2005.

Walking on fire Well done to the team of Gamlingay Fire Walkers who doubled their £1000 fundraising target and braved a fire walk in aid of the Charity.

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On 22 April a number of fearless fundraisers will take to the skies of Salisbury for the Mayor of Bracknell Skydive, generating more than £7,500 for the Charity.

StrongArm Both the StrongArm and Junior StrongArm Challenge fundraisers will be back this summer taking on various endurance challenges for the Charity, with the junior adventurers taking on kayak and orienteering challenges around the Lake District. The Senior StrongArm’s activities include swimming Lake Windermere, running England’s four highest peaks, a coast to coast cycle, and completing the Great North Run in fancy dress.

COMMERCIAL UPDATE

Summer Fun at Harcombe Amazing holidays at amazing prices As the summer months approach, enjoy a break away at Harcombe House in the delightful South Devon countryside all while supporting and directly contributing towards The Fire Fighters Charity.

And if you fancy an adventure - or have kids in tow - there is a variety of activities nearby including sea kayaking, rock climbing and quad biking. Back at base camp after a nice cup of coffee and slice of cake in our relaxing café the outdoor play area, tennis courts and indoor heated pool should keep everyone entertained.

Why not take advantage of a quality, affordable holiday in one of our 20 cosy bungalows. The idyllic location – classed as an area of outstanding beauty - is home to over 40 walks ranging in length from 2 to 12 miles.

For information on the latest availability and offers for spring / summer breaks you can call Harcombe House on 01626 853639 or visit www.harcombehouseholidays.com

On a rescue mission Personalised bags with a decommissioned touch Elvis and Kresse have supported our Charity since 2007, by generously donating to us each year and giving us 50% of profits from their fire hose range. As an extra personal touch, you can now add your own laser etched message to selected Elvis and Kresse products ordered from our online shop.

Repurposing reclaimed materials including decommissioned fire hose, Elvis and Kresse design and produce an amazing range of eye catching bags, belts and accessories.

Choosing an Elvis and Kresse product as a personalised gift helps to recycle heroic materials that were destined for landfill after a distinguished career fighting fires and saving lives.

Focusing on quality craftsmanship and classic, timeless designs, all Elvis & Kresse products are hand-made and unique.

Order a beautiful, characterful, robust and mostly red (although some other colours are available) item through our online shop – www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/shop - or direct from the Elvis and Kresse website – www.elvisandkresse.com.

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t u o r Clea

r u o ycupboards

r e t h g fi e r fi and help a

To find your nearest donation point go to

www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/recycle Your fire station needs your old clothes, shoes, bags and linen. Each item given to our recycling banks helps to fund our services, supporting injured firefighters!

Find out more recycling@firefighterscharity.org.uk www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/recycling Registered office: The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6, Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. Charity registered in England & Wales (1093387) and Scotland (SC040096).

MERCHANDISE

The Fire Fighters Charity 75th Anniversary Gifts To commemorate our 75th anniversary we have new special edition gifts available to purchase from our shop.

A black 6oz stainless steel hipflask with filler funnel and two thimble cups.

Black: HF02-75TH £25.38 (+£10 p&p)

Boxed H ipfl

k Hipflask Set Blac

A 6oz stainless steel hipflask, available in Royal Blue or Red. Includes a filler funnel and two matching thimble cups in a wooden presentation box.

Blue: HF03-75TH £31.86 (+£10 p&p) Red: HF04-75TH £31.86 (+£10 p&p)

a s k S et

Coming soon: The Fire Fighters Charity 75th anniversary edition crystalware Shout!

MERCHANDISE

Premium Retirement Gifts BA Tallies and Ribbons 1. BA Tally BA U £30.00 Handmade and hand engraved – allow up to 21 days for delivery.

2. Miniature BA Tally BA MINI £30.00 Handmade and hand engraved – allow up to 21 days for delivery.

3. Enamel Service Ribbons LSRIB / QJRIB / DJRIB £4.00 each Long Service, Queens Golden Jubilee and Queens Diamond Jubilee available.

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4. Triple Service Ribbon TRRIB £11.00 A Triple Medal Ribbon incorporating the Long Service, Queens Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee medal ribbons in one single bar.

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5. BA Tally Mounting Board BABOARD £10.00 An attractive mahogany board with a stand, ideal for mounting the BA Tally.

160mm x 109mm. (Please note, BA Tally Mounting Board is provided blank.)

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Statuettes and Crystalware 1. Modern Firefighter with Jaws of Life Statuette New for 2018 AF1F £131.76

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2. British Firefighter Stand Down Female Statuette

We have a wide range of glassware and decanters featuring the “saved” image.

AF1E £131.76

Prices start from £22.68

3. British Firefighter Stand Down Male Statuette

Crystalware and statuettes are dispatched directly from our suppliers. Please allow up to a maximum of 21 days for delivery.

AF1D £131.76 We have even more statuettes available to order on our website: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/ statuettes

Postage and packaging costs are applicable on all orders.

Order online at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/shop or call 01256 366 566 22 23

With your support we can continue to be there for our everyday heroes From our roots 75 years ago supporting bereaved families of firefighters killed during the Blitz, we have evolved into a modern day service providing a wide range of life enhancing health and wellbeing support to the whole fire service community.

To make a donation simply complete the form included with this issue and send it to us along with your cheque or you can donate online at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/75years

£75

will help fund psychological support sessions

£50

will help us develop our services via telephone and online

Registered office: The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6, Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. Charity registered in England & Wales (1093387) and Scotland (SC040096).

£25

will fund an hour of nursing support

Phoenix from the flames A look back on our first 75 years - from the devastation of the Blitz to the Charity we know today – and a look ahead to the plans we have in place to ensure our long term future supporting the UK’s fire services community.

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HISTORY

I

n the autumn of 1940 German bombers devastated large swathes of London and the Thames estuary, as well as other major cities and strategical points across the country as the Blitz brought the Second World War to our shores. It was a dark time for the country and the most challenging time ever in the history of the fire service.

From September 1940, London was bombed on 57 consecutive nights, with 100,000 incendiary bombs falling within the square mile of the City of London on 29 December alone. In all, 997 men and women from the fire services lost their lives during the Second World War in their valiant attempts to minimise the devastating impact of the bombardment of our towns and cities.

It was during these dark years that The Fire Fighters Charity first emerged, originally in the form of the London Fire Service Benevolent Fund, set up by District Officer Ronnie Greene MBE, the man widely regarded as the father of our Charity. Formed from an initial donation of £24 to support the bereaved families of firefighters killed during the Blitz, the fund became a focal point for members of the public wanting to show their gratitude for the work of the fire service during the war and to help firefighting families affected by it.

such as through the provision of motorised wheelchairs for those who had been disabled as a result of their war-time injuries.

Eventually, in 1943, the fund was nationalised and became the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund (FSNBF).

This move meant that by 1944 the Fund had extended its support to cover the fire service itself, providing much needed support to injured firefighters,

1965, meanwhile, marked another milestone for the Fund as its first recuperation centre, Marine Court in Littlehampton, opened its doors to beneficiaries. Harcombe House in Devon followed in 1981 and in 1995, two years after the fund marked its Golden

By the end of the war almost 1400 fire service orphans were also being cared for by the Fund, supported by grants and allowances. As peace time came, the work of the Fund continued to diversify and this dedication to the fire service was recognised in 1953 when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II became the Fund’s Royal Patron, a position she holds to this day.

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Jubilee with a reception at London’s Guildhall, attended by the Queen, Jubilee House in Cumbria opened, offering rehabilitation and nursing services to beneficiaries.

The Fund continued to evolve its services into the new Millennium and launched a child and family programme at Jubilee House in 2004 that, for the first time, allowed families with one or more children with special care needs to come together with others in a safe and supportive environment.

This hugely successful programme continues today at Harcombe House in Devon and provides a broad range of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

The noughties also saw the Fund launch rehabilitation services at Harcombe House in 2006. The move continued its

HISTORY

commitment to expanding the Fund’s rehabilitation support services, allowing it to actively help more fire and rescue service personnel in their recovery from illness or injury, through the delivery of specialist exercise and physical therapy.

Two years later, in 2008, the decision was taken to rename the Fund, relaunching it as The Fire Fighters Charity, the charity we know today.

2013, meanwhile, proved to be a memorable year as we celebrated our 70th anniversary and also re-opened Marine Court – following a major refurbishment – as a third centre for rehabilitation. This meant that we were now able to accommodate beneficiaries from across the UK in need of rehabilitation, providing a residential programme for them in either Devon, Cumbria or West Sussex.

Today, in our 75th year, we remain dedicated to the UK fire community, building on our long history to provide a broad range of health and wellbeing services to over 5,000 beneficiaries a year. From residential rehabilitation programmes to community-based support and psychological therapy, we launched a new Strategic Plan in 2017 that aims to support more people, over the coming three years, with more relevant and appropriate services, in new and innovative ways.

One key area of activity for us that - as outlined in our Strategic Plan and which is already bearing fruit – is a pledge to increase our mental health support services. In the wake of last year’s tragedy at Grenfell Tower and the terror attacks in Manchester and London, awareness of the need for mental health support for our fire and rescue service personnel – and all our emergency services – has been heightened. However, we have seen an increasing demand for our mental health services and enhancing the psychological

therapy services that our beneficiaries are eligible to access has been central to our onward plans for some time.

With specialist psychological therapists at each of our three centres and through combining psychological support with access to our physical rehabilitation programmes, we are able to provide an effective resource to support those emotionally affected by the things they may have witnessed or encountered during their careers.

As well as further improving our existing physical activity and rehabilitation programmes, we also pledged last year to increase access to our advice, information and support services, as well as reaching out to all members of the fire community and encouraging people to connect with us through a range of new online services.

To deliver our ambitious plans we need to increase the amount we raise each year, aiming for £10m a year by 2020. To achieve this increase, we are encouraging as many supporters as we can to join our regular giving scheme and either start a small monthly regular donation or consider an increase. To help us celebrate our 75th anniversary would you be willing to donate 75p a week? Or perhaps donate £75 over the year? If you feel you can, please go online to www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/ regulargiving and to sign up today or call us on 01256 366566.

We’ve touched the lives of hundreds of thousands of people since our foundation in 1943 and, with the continued support of the community we are here to serve, we hope to do the same for even more people over the next 75 years and beyond.

Opening of the Marine Court Rehabilitation Wing in 2013

“By the end of the war almost 1400 fire service orphans were also being cared for by the Fund”

Our Diamond Jubilee celebration at The Royal Albert Hall in 2003

The Queen at our Golden Jubilee Reception in 1993

Thanks for your continued support, we simply couldn’t do what we do without you.

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CASE STUDY

London’s Fittest Firefighter Competitor:

Getting back Dean Pounder, a firefighter from Tyne and Wear Fire Service spent time at our centre in Penrith, Cumbria after sciatica severely effected both his home and work life.

D

aily training and staying fit was a way of life for firefighter Dean Pounder but after suffering from sciatica, pain caused by rubbing or pressing of the sciatic nerve, two-anda-half years ago he was forced to adapt his tough daily regime to manage his condition. Dean, who now works for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, had spent 12 years serving with London Fire Brigade and was a competitor in London’s Fittest Firefighter before his condition worsened. .

Talking about the competition Dean said; “It’s called London’s Fittest Firefighter, they run it every year and it’s normally held in September down at Covent

Garden. I train regularly but I hadn’t specifically trained for the London’s Fittest Firefighter, as I got roped in to help out and basically took part in the first four stations. There are 12 stations and you go from one to the next as quickly as you can as it’s a timed event. There’s rowing, bench presses, knee raises and a part where you have to wear full fire kit head to feet.

He continued; “You have to bowl out a length of 70mm hose then set a standpipe into the hydrant and connect the 70mm hose to the hydrant. At the other end you have to tie a clove hitch to the branch of a hose reel followed by running up several flights of stairs before hauling aloft the length of hose reel. The course normally finishes off with a firefighter completing the rat run

with a casualty (dummy). Finally you hit the red buzzer and that’s where it stops. I can’t remember the first four stations I took part in but low and behold we, our team managed to complete the course, without any training, well specifically myself.”

An extremely strenuous event, Dean didn’t falter as he is a very physically active person, always maintaining a high fitness level so when his condition struck he struggled to adapt to his new routine.

“The injury has affected both my work and home life. I have been off work now for 5 months and it’s not easy when you are used to being active.

I have worked all my adult life and I went from being mobile and very physically active to -

Shout!

especially post-surgery - pretty much sofa bound. You have to rest, although at the same time they [Dean’s doctors] advised I walked every 20 minutes but keep it minimal. Home life has been very tough because I am not used to being at home.

Sitting around at home you find that it can be stressful.”

It was around nine years ago that Dean first applied for support from the Charity to recover from a training injury after encouragement from a fellow colleague.

“I found out about The Fire Fighters Charity for the first time back in 2009 and that was when I suffered a training injury and ruptured my tendon. You see leaflets around the station but a lot of the time when it doesn’t

CASE STUDY

affect you, you turn a blind eye to it. You know it’s there - but you just don’t know it’s there. One of my colleagues said Dean, ‘you know you have got The Fire Fighters Charity for the injury you have, its best that you see them, they are very good, they look after you and it’s a free service.’

So I knew the process and was very much looking forward to coming back and getting stuck in plus spending time at Jubilee House and meeting new people.”

Two-and-half years ago Dean first suffered symptoms of sciatica with the symptoms progressively worsening.

He said; “I saw my GP and they assessed me and they said yes Dean, it’s sciatica. I had an MRI scan and was off work for 4-and-half months and then it got better, so I thought ok, this is good now. I took my pain medication and went to The Fire Fighters Charity centre Harcombe House in Devon and they looked after me but two years later, the same symptoms returned, but more aggressive.

I was signed off work and had an MRI scan again and it was revealed that the L5 and S1 spinal discs in my lower back had permeated so they recommended surgery. Now

I am 12 weeks post-surgery and that’s the reason I visited Jubilee House after the Charity advised me to come between 10 and 14 weeks post-surgery so that I could benefit from the services they provide.”

Dean admitted that, with his injury causing him so much pain, it was a complete wake-up call in regards to the type of training he could manage on his own and what was actually working ; “Just by training alone and what I normally do on a-day to-day basis it wasn’t going to solve or rehabilitate my injury.

“The programme that they

prescribed me is not easy as it’s designed to make me work and to challenge me. It’s not so much as painful, but the rehabilitation they have given me is making my body feel that it’s not a standard exercise routine that I am used to, so it can be challenging and can be frustrating at times. I am normally used to being 100% active and fit all the time and now I am doing something where it is a challenge but it is aiding my ability to overcome my injury through these exercises they have given me.”

Having reached out for the extra support Dean is grateful for the time he spent at Jubilee House.

“The staff all know their stuff and are experienced professionals. Without them, and the whole Charity, I know that me personally, I would be doing something that I shouldn’t be doing to aid my recovery as I only know so much. They basically say ‘Dean, this is what you need to be doing’ and I am just reading and going along.”

And taking his experiences home from his stay in Penrith, even Dean’s community has benefited.

“I implemented walks into my outdoor fitness routine and I got some of my neighbours in the community to join in with me and they benefited as I am a qualified personal trainer. I used that experience to help them but I also benefited from them providing me with company when I was bored.”

He added; “They have given me a programme I have learnt from and when I do go back to work - or even before I go back to work - I have the tools and programme that I can progress from, so I know that when I do leave here there is still a path for me to continue, for me to travel beyond and overcome these ailments that I have.”

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VIRGIN MONEY LONDON MARATHON 2018

Virgin Money London Marathon 2018

Meet Our 2018 Team

T

he Virgin Money London Marathon – one of the biggest sporting charity events of the year – takes place on Sunday 22 April. This year 17 inspirational runners have secured a place as part of The Fire Fighters Charity’s London Marathon team, together pledging to raise an astonishing £34,000.

This year you can follow the progress of our runners as they prepare for and recover from such an astonishing spectacle of athleticism and camaraderie.

Just visit the ‘Latest’ section of our website – www. firefighterscharity.org.uk – where members of the team recount stories from their arduous training programmes and explain why they have taken on the challenge.

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Jordan Bryson, Cumbria

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ jordan-bryson As a serving firefighter in Cumbria I am very passionate about the Charity and all it does to help those in need.

I enjoy all aspects of fitness and am really looking forward to the challenge of a Marathon and running for such a great cause.

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Erica Dillon, Merseyside

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www.justgiving.com/EricaDillon RoadToLondon2018 I turn 40 next year so the London Marathon is six weeks after my 40th.

It’s quite a milestone year – it’s also 10 years since I worked for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service on the World Firefighter Games in Liverpool, so I decided it would be a nice year to give something back to The Fire Fighters Charity for such a great 18 months working at Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

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Warren Morris, Merseyside

mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/ warrenmorris1 One of the 50 things on my bucket list is to run the London Marathon, so I am going to complete the biggest challenge of my life so far, all while raising funds and awareness of The Fire Fighters Charity.

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Scott Mathie, Lincolnshire

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ scott-mathie1 Having been a firefighter since 2005 I am running The London Marathon

for The Fire Fighters Charity because of the amazing work they do for firefighters. For the biggest part there is a happy ending to what we do, but unfortunately we also see people with various injuries and sometimes have to comfort people in their final moments.

All of this takes its toll, both physically and mentally but the Charity has sites across the country to aid those firefighters and their families.

Kathryn Frost, Shropshire

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ kathryn-frost5 Being a firefighter for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service I have been involved in fundraising for The Fire Fighters Charity and have seen the amazing work they do for those in need. I want to raise as much as possible to help them to continue supporting my fellow colleagues and their families.

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Russell Bow, West Midlands

www.justgiving.com/Russell-Bow3 My dad was Graham Bow MBE and he worked for the fire service and volunteered for the Charity for many years. During most of this time he also had a debilitating illness but was known for his smile and charm.

He was recognised with a lifetime achievement award at the 2014 Spirit of Fire Awards. Running the London Marathon has always been something to tick off my bucket list and I couldn’t think of a finer reason to put myself through it. It’s my way of giving something back.

Shout!

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VIRGIN MONEY LONDON MARATHON 2018

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Paul Clark, West Midlands

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ paul-clark48 I have completed 26 years in The West Midlands Fire Service and have witnessed first-hand how the charity have assisted my colleagues, and I have also seen the tireless work that their staff do. I now thought it’s time that I assisted the charity to raise money and what better experience than competing in the London Marathon, where I could give a bit back to this well deserving charity.

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Terry Jones, Carmarthenshire

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ TerryWynJones I am running for The Fire Fighters Charity because in 2017 I had an accident on duty resulting in loss of feeling in my shoulder and right arm. I applied for some rehabilitation and attended a sixday programme in Littlehampton. I could not believe the progress that I had made from very little movement to 80% in a week. On the sixth day I was asked to return for another five days, and again I saw a massive improvement and I’m now able to go back to work.

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Chris Parnham, Buckinghamshire

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www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ chris-parnham3

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Many of you that know me will think there is no way I can run for 26 miles.

So, I am setting out to prove everyone wrong and whilst doing this I want to raise some funds for a very good cause that means a lot to me as a firefighter.

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I am extremely proud to be a firefighter and it gives me great pleasure to try and raise money by running an event such as the London Marathon for such an amazing cause. The work The Fire Fighters Charity do to help my colleagues with their daily struggles is inspiring so it is the least I can do in supporting this fantastic cause.

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Tom Houseman, Oxfordshire

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ TomHouseman

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Kyle Jamieson, Oxfordshire

www.justgiving.com/Kyle-Jamieson

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I want to take on the hardest challenge possible and complete the London Marathon in full PPE and BA kit and push the boundaries out even further. I am running for The Fire Fighters Charity to support the fantastic work they do to help and protect firefighters in need.

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Tyla Sparkhall, Essex

www.justgiving.com/Tyla-Sparkhall I will be running the London Marathon in memory of my Sister Nikkola Sparkhall

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and Brother Danny-Ross Sparkhall who sadly passed away from smoke inhalation after a house fire. It’s now my turn to give something back to the courageous firefighters that risked their lives and fought so hard to try and save my sister and brother.

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Abbey Bryan, London

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ abbey-bryan On January 1st 2012 just after 12am, and the countdown for the New Year, a stray firework caught my family home alight. My sister and baby nephew were on the third floor and completely trapped with the fire coming up the outside as well as the only stairwell. I’m endlessly indebted to the brave firefighters who saved both of them and run into what people often run from.

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Shaun Scott, London

www.justgiving.com/ giveitupforfirefighters As a show of my respect for the burdens that firefighters and their families bear, I am running the Marathon carrying my bicycle. The up-ended bicycle symbolises ‘waste of potential’ that wants to be put right, just as an injured or traumatised firefighter deserves support when in time of need.

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Jane Borham, Berkshire

www.justgiving.com/ JaneBorhamLondonMarathon2018 The Charity is close to my heart as my husband Steve is a firefighter and he is mine and my 5 -year old daughter’s hero. I have run 5k’s, 10k’s and half marathons but my all-time goal is the London Marathon and can’t wait to run it in April for The Fire Fighters Charity!

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Julie Munro, Surrey

www.justgiving.com/Julie-munro10 My husband has just completed 30 years of service with London Fire Brigade so I wanted to raise funds for The Fire Fighters Charity following Grenfell that he attended last year along with hundreds of his colleagues. The Charity provided amazing support for everyone who attended and I just felt it was really a worthwhile cause and personal to me.

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Michelle Foreman, Kent

www.justgiving.com/MichelleForeman3 I have three children, one born with a life threatening illness and two disabled so I have used the Charity’s facilities at Harcombe House. I really wanted to give something back for the help we have received but also knowing the Charity would be needed even more after the Grenfell incident I wanted to put more money in the pot to help those firefighters.

FIREFIGHTING FIT

Spinal Cord Injuries Week Nursing Services Lead Kath Savage on supporting our beneficiaries with more complex needs.

Based at Jubilee House in Penrith I provide clinical leadership to a team of Registered Nurses and Clinical Assistants, providing support to beneficiaries with nursing and personal care needs.

In 2017 the nursing team, working in partnership with the rehabilitation and psychological services team, developed and ran a programme of support for beneficiaries with spinal cord injuries, let’s look back on its success…

When did the programme run and who attended?

The programme ran in October 2017 and was attended by beneficiaries who had a spinal cord injury caused through trauma, accident or disease.

Who was involved in planning the week?

The week included both psychological and physical components and therefore consultation with all the multi professional team was essential. This included the physiotherapists, exercise therapists, rehabilitation assistants, psychological therapists and the nursing team. The needs of the beneficiaries were reviewed and early conversations helped us understand what they would like to achieve during the week. One of the key aspects for this group was to create a peer support network; attendees had a shared identity in that they were members of the fire and rescue service community and welcomed the opportunity to spend time with

other beneficiaries who had experienced a spinal cord injury.

What did the programme consist of?

A bespoke programme of activity was provided and delivered by Charity staff and some external specialists.

The whole team at Jubilee House played a role in making the week a success, pulling together to create a positive and beneficial experience.

The programme included workshops on mindfulness and strategies on dealing with difficult situations as well as physical sessions with programmes tailored to meet the individual needs of each attendee. This included daily circuits, core strengthening, and general physical fitness. External specialists were invited in to deliver sessions on bowel management and provide education on the importance of good skin integrity/ pressure area care.

One of the highlights of the week was the opportunity for attendees to participate in a wheelchair sports session provided by Cumbria Wheelchair Sports. This ‘taster’ session had a positive impact that opened up beneficiaries’ minds to further opportunities they can explore in their local communities. Another beneficial session included ways to improve independence and quality of life. This was run by Cyclone Mobility who introduced the beneficiaries to the ‘Batec hand bike,’ a specialist wheelchair attachment designed by and for people with disabilities. The bikes enabled

the group to get out into the surrounding countryside and there was certainly a positive vibe following this session (although speed limits may well have been broken!)

What was the feedback from the beneficiaries who attended?

The week was an overwhelming success with positive feedback.

One beneficiary said he had benefited from “being able to share experiences and talk to people who understand what you are going through” whilst another stated “real people, dealing with real issues, something a textbook cannot give you insight too.”

Where next?

The success of spinal cord injuries week has laid a foundation for the future, enabling us to continue to develop and deliver holistic, and individualised, programmes designed to ensure that beneficiaries (and their carers) are equipped with the health knowledge and skills to manage their conditions. The team are already working closely with the Advice, Information and Support Services Team to develop a programme linked to National Carer’s Week (11th-17th June 2018).

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Accessing Support The Fire Fighters Charity provides nursing support at Jubilee House in Penrith.

Our nursing beds are registered with the Care Quality Commission who has rated the service as good under the new rating system.

We would like to reach out to those beneficiaries with specific nursing/personal care needs who would benefit from our support by attending one of our residential programmes. We understand that many of our beneficiaries may have physical limitations or degenerative conditions and that engagement in a rehabilitation programme may be difficult. The nursing team will support you, and working alongside other staff members, can devise a programme that is tailored to your individual needs, helping to improve your quality of life.

Whether this is helping you engage with physical activity on the rehabilitation programme or supporting you to improve your emotional health and social wellbeing.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Charity on 0800 389 8820

FIREFIGHTING FIT

Sleeptalking Psychological Therapist AJ Whitaker gives her top tips for a better night’s sleep and explains why getting enough is so important for our physical and psychological health.

M

any of us start the year with good intentions; increase exercise, lose a few pounds, detox or generally improve our health. However, do we ever consider that sleep can play an important part in our achieving these goals? How much do we actually need and can a bad night’s sleep really negatively affect our health?

The answer, simply, is yes it can.

Nearly everyone I come into contact with, at some stage in their lives, has a problem with their sleep, and I’m confident that you will have had too.

Trouble getting to sleep, remaining asleep, poor quality sleep or waking up early are all common issues that people have with their sleep, but while poor sleep has been linked to poor physical and psychological health, it is often not given the same attention as being physically active or eating well.

When we sleep we ideally go through a process, a shift in our consciousness from being awake to being asleep, >>

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FIREFIGHTING FIT

“It may take a few nights to get used to the idea of a new bedtime routine, but it could make a world of difference”

>> a period of reduced activity normally associated with lying down in a safe and comfortable environment. There is also an assumption that we are inactive whilst we sleep, but there is plenty of research to show that it is actually one of the most important activities of the 24 hour day.

Our bodies organise themselves around a 24 hour body clock, not the watch on your wrist or phone, they operate on a cycle of sleep and activity, a circadian rhythm. This rhythm refers to processes happening in an appropriate order, for example; growth, metabolism, adjustments to body temperature, blood pressure and heart rate. During sleep some systems such as digestion slow down, but others start to work more actively i.e., cellular repair, toxin clearance, memory consolidation and information processing in the brain. In short, whilst you are sleeping your body is recovering from your day and preparing you for the next.

Lack of sleep can lead to low energy and has been shown to have an adverse effect on blood sugar, appetite and the immune system. It has also been linked to elevated blood pressure and research has shown that there is a link between sleep and mental health, with better sleep having a positive effect on low mood and anxiety.

So getting enough sleep is one of the best investments you can make in your own health. But how can we change the sleep patterns and habits we have? Here are my tips:

Tip 1: Natural light exposure Melatonin is a hormone that helps to regulate periods of sleep and wakefulness. It is moderated by exposure to natural daylight and increasing your exposure during the day – by taking tea breaks near a window or by the back door, or by standing outside for a few minutes several times a day will use this naturally occurring hormone to your advantage. If you find it difficult to wake in the morning, get the curtains open to let in some natural light.

Tip 2: Electric light Is your bathroom or bedroom lit up like a football stadium? Bright lights stimulate our brain to wake up, so start to reduce electric light about an hour before bedtime. Cleaning our teeth in a bright bathroom then expecting our brains to immediately switch off is giving a mixed message to the brain. If you have dimmer switches, use them.

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Tip 3: Bedroom environment The bedroom should be for two main activities; sleep and intimacy, not for work, exercise or watching TV. Turn the technology off and ban it from the bedroom, the light emitted from electronic devices can suppress the secretion of melatonin and your brain needs to get used to the idea that the bedroom means sleep.

If you use an alarm clock turn the face away from you and pop it just out of arms reach to reduce the temptation to keep checking the time. If it is possible, get rid of the alarm clock for one or two nights a week, this will give your body a chance to tell you how much sleep it needs.

Keep the temperature of the bedroom cool, a reduction in body temperature signals the body to seek sleep.

Is your mattress comfortable? Vacuuming the mattress, refreshing the pillows and bedding and choosing a detergent you like the smell of can all promote more restful sleep.

On average we sleep between 5 – 10 hours a night, reassessing your sleeping environment, finding practical solutions and making some adjustments may help you sleep better.

FIREFIGHTING FIT

Tip 4: A bedtime routine It may take a few nights to get used to the idea of a new bedtime routine, but it could make a world of difference. Start to wind down before bed with 30 – 60 minutes of reduced activity, lighting, TV and technology. To relax you could read an easy book, try relaxation techniques or visualise somewhere warm and pleasant with good memories. Experiment for a week or so with a modified bedtime routine, try different options to reduce activity and invite sleep in. Keep to a consistent schedule of going to bed and waking up at regular times. Keeping a sleep diary with notes on what you changed and how you slept may help to create an effective routine.

Tip 5: Exercise Building a little more exercise into your day helps the body to feel physically tired. You can increase activity levels by doing housework, walking around the supermarket at a quicker pace or more vigorous activity such as running.

However, avoid exercise just before bedtime as winding down is the aim.

Tip 6: Food, alcohol and caffeine Try limiting things that stimulate the brain near bedtime such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and food. Have them earlier in the day and allow the biggest time gap possible between these and bedtime. Many articles promote having no caffeine after 3pm, for some of us that is tricky, but widening the time gap between that last cup of tea or coffee and bed may be helpful. Alcohol may give us a relaxed feeling, but it inhibits

our normal circadian rhythm and melatonin secretion. Indeed, alcohol acts like a sedative and leads to unrefreshing sleep, causing you to get up during the night to visit the toilet or waking up in the morning feeling sluggish or hungover.

Moderate your alcohol consumption and try to allow the biggest gap possible between that last drink and bedtime.

Tip 7: Psychological factors It’s no surprise that stress, low mood and anxiety may keep you awake. Worries about specific issues such as exams, interviews, family, abuse, grief or trauma can all adversely affect sleep and it is bitterly ironic that while mental health problems need sleep to improve, they can often prevent us from sleeping.

For many there may be unhelpful psychological associations with sleep too, nightmares or worry about sleep, telling yourself that you are in for a bad night’s sleep, these can be self-fulfilling and prevent you from getting the sleep you need.

If you are anxious about having too much to do, try writing a list before bed. If you have recurring bad dreams or thoughts, meanwhile, try writing yourself a different ending, or write yourself to a safe place.

This can help the mind to reduce the connection with these thoughts whilst you sleep.

If you do wake up during the night thinking then try and get up or try and keep your eyes open, it is amazing just how difficult it is to try and keep your eyes open as your natural response is to close them.

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Tip 8: Awake during the night If you lay awake at night for more than about 30 minutes with thoughts racing or chasing sleep, get up. Reduce your body temperature by standing on a cold floor or placing your hands on a cold window for a while. Go to a different room and do something quiet (not TV) with as little light interference as possible. The aim is not to stimulate the brain, rather to break the cycle of thoughts and habits. Try going back to bed after a short time, it may take several attempts to get into a better habit.

Tip 9: Physical illness Ill health, pain, snoring, sleep apnoea and some medication can adversely affect sleep. Check the small print on medication for effects on sleep and speak to your GP to discuss treatment options for mental health or physical problems like restless legs syndrome or sleep apnoea.

Sleeping tablets or non-prescription medication may be a short term fix to break a habit, but over a long period of time they often become less effective.

It may take time to create new, healthier sleep routines and, while change can be a challenge, the physical and psychological gains from improved sleep are worth the effort. Good luck and sleep tight.

“Building a little more exercise into your day helps the body to feel physically tired”

FIREFIGHTING FIT

Perfect packed lunches Harcombe House Exercise Therapist Rob Smith explains how to make a healthy packed lunch

cress, gherkins, grated carrot, peppers, roasted veg, healthy slaws.

•

Packed lunch made in record time, rushing around getting the kids ready for school. A couple of white bread sandwiches with wafer thin ham a packet of crisps, chocolate bar and a piece of fruit to make it all feel a bit healthy. Or forget lunch completely and pluck a pasty from the shelf of a local garage.

There is no hiding the fact you need to be organised to make a wholesome, tasty and healthy packed lunch. Start prepping the night before if you want success.

Let’s tackle the sandwich first •

When choosing bread go for wholemeal, whole wheat or whole grain over white.

Choose thin sliced or change for a wrap

•

Remember that bread is rich in carbohydrate, which is fine and healthy but could hinder your weight loss efforts if you have an inactive office-based role and your portion size is too big. What about half a sandwich and half salad?

• Add veg wherever you can; spinach, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, beetroot, rocket,

How about cheese and beetroot or smoked salmon with wilted spinach using cream cheese as a butter substitute?

Make your salad substantial There is no point having a salad and then being ravenous by mid-afternoon and then filling up on snacks to make up for it.

Fill up at lunch with some ideas like these...

• Use spice and herbs to help reduce the reliance on salt.

• Fruit pots. Cherries, apples,

•

great choices.

Sometimes you will cook a soup which tastes dull, try a sprinkle of parmesan to liven it up.

Healthy extras for your lunch box

Get prepping the day before

• Small pot of Greek yogurt or Skyr with berries or honey.

lunches that make your work

• Olives (8-10) and start making some exciting colleagues jealous.

Squash, lentil and bacon soup

•

Use protein to fill you up like chicken, salmon, eggs, tinned legumes, Quorn, Tofu, cheese, tuna, lean meats.

•

Nuts and seeds can add texture and healthy fats to your salad; try pumpkin, walnuts or toasted pine nuts.

Hand full of red lentils

•

Go for oil-based vinaigrette dressing. How about 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 3 tbsp olive oil and a small squirt of honey to cover two salads.

Half chicken or veg stock cube

Ingredients

Method

2 slices of smoked bacon

1. Slice onion, peel and chop the squash and pumpkin into chunks.

1 squash or pumpkin variety (I use musquee de provence pumpkin, grown in the garden!)

1 onion 1 tbsp coconut oil, or rapeseed.

Garlic 1-2 gloves Half a teaspoon of chilli Black pepper

Use lentils or chick peas to get some plant-based protein into your soups - have a look at my squash, bacon and red lentil soup recipe.

• Hummus and veg sticks such as carrot, celery, cucumber.

Don’t forget carbohydrate; try adding cold new potatoes, couscous or Quinoa to a salad.

•

• Nut and seed pot mix.

• Double up on recipes and cook plenty so you can freeze any extras.

•

Boost your veg with homemade soup

pears, grapefruit, kiwi are all

Grated ginger tbsp (I freeze my ginger and grate skin and all straight from the freezer) Experiment with some spice.

I often use garam masala, turmeric, ground coriander, cumin, my soups are never the same twice!

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2. Heat oil and cook the bacon until coloured in a deep pan, add onion, cook until soft. Add ginger and garlic and squash, cook for 3 mins. Add spice and pepper cook for 1min.

3. Add enough stock to cover the squash/pumpkin and simmer until soft, stock amount may vary depending on the squash/pumpkin size.

4. Blitz the soup with a hand blender and add more stock to achieve a consistency you like.

5. Add red lentils and cook until they have a slight bite, season if required.

6. Rest for 5 minutes and enjoy, portion up and freeze for lunches during the week, enjoy with some chunky bread.

FIREFIGHTING FIT

Know your prostate In the second article in our series on men’s health awareness, Registered General Nurse at Jubilee House, Cassie Harrison, explores the signs, symptoms and risk factors of prostate problems and prostate cancer.

The word “prostate” is a term that many men will have heard of, but which few may actually have a good understanding of, so I am pleased to be able to shed a little light on this often ignored gland.

Around 47,000 men in the UK are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year and approximately 11,000 will die of the disease. However, as men age many will develop problems in relation to their prostate that aren’t indicative of cancer.

Indeed, many of the symptoms of non-cancerous conditions can be similar to those of prostate cancer, so don’t panic if any of the following rings true for you. If you are concerned though, see your GP and get your condition properly diagnosed. The good news is that prostate cancer is a very slow growing cancer and if caught early it can be cured.

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system and is located just below the bladder.

It is roughly the size of a walnut and is responsible for helping to produce the fluid found in semen.

The prostate gland surrounds the tube known as the urethra, which passes urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, so any prostate disease or growth (benign or malignant) is likely to cause problems with urination.

However, this is not always the case and prostate cancer can develop without you noticing any symptoms.

Symptoms of prostate cancer may include the following: • slow or weak flow of urine • urinating more frequently • difficulty starting to urinate • pain or burning sensation when urinating • unexplained urinary infection • difficulty getting or maintaining an erection or pain during ejaculation • impotence • constipation and altered bowel habit • blood in urine or semen • pain in the back However, the above symptoms can also be caused by noncancerous conditions such as an enlarged prostate as well as by age, low intake of fibre, diverticulitis, prostate infections, diabetes or heart disease.

Consequently, prostate cancer can be difficult to diagnose and there is currently no national screening programme in the UK for the disease.

Diagnosis usually begins with a simple blood test which measures your levels of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), a protein that is uniquely secreted by the prostate. A high level of PSA can suggest cancer but the

test is deemed unreliable in isolation as 75% of men with a high PSA don’t have prostate cancer. Similarly, a low or normal PSA level does not 100% rule out prostate cancer. For this reason, doctors will usually take a number of PSA tests over time and follow this up with MRI scans and biopsies to be sure of a diagnosis.

Your risk of developing prostate cancer increases with your age and most men are diagnosed in their sixties. However, although rarer, it in can affect younger men too. Your risk also increases with the following factors: • race/ethnicity – black men have a higher risk • family history • diet; eating too much dairy, processed and red meats also barbecued foods You may be offered a PSA test at your free NHS health checks

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– at age 40 and every five years thereafter – and deciding to do so is an entirely personal choice.

Some men may wish to know their baseline PSA levels, others may not, but if you do the option is there for you.

As a general rule though, and as with any form of cancer, preventative steps such as a healthy, balanced, Mediterranean diet and regular exercise are also worth considering. Research has shown that some foods such as tomatoes, pomegranate and green tea may also promote a healthy prostate, so there’s no harm in adding a few of these to your diet too.

Useful helplines: Prostate Cancer UK

0800 07408383 Orchid National male cancer helpline

0808 802 0010

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Retire, renew, refresh, review and rewind

OUTREACH PROGRAMME UPDATE Clare Hannaford, Project Lead for Outreach Development, shares an update from the first few months of our new pilot community programmes that she introduced in the previous Shout! issue.

Outreach – retired community Since last September we have run two programmes focusing on living well as you get older for our retired beneficiaries.

The programmes were held at Tolvaddon Fire Station in Cornwall and Temple Fire Station in Bristol and covered topics such as staying physically active, eating well (with a focus on the Mediterranean diet), sleep and how to get enough of it, recognising stress and a taster session of tai chi.

The sessions, that aimed to be interactive, included time to chat over a cup of tea and incorporated guest speakers from other organisations such as Age UK, Men’s Sheds and Active Plus. Ken Seager, former Chair of The Fire Fighters Charity also gave a talk and shared some memories of his time at our Charity. Feedback from the programmes has been positive with participants enjoying the content and the opportunity to re-engage with The Fire Fighters Charity and the fire service community.

Some participants have made positive changes already, with one saying, “I’m exercising more and including some balance and weights”, while others have felt reassured that they are doing the right thing commenting, “The programme

showed me I was doing things right and reminded me not to slip into bad habits.”

Using the feedback from the first programmes we’ve run a second phase of the pilot programme at our Harcombe House centre with a slightly updated format, using Charity volunteer and former Chief Fire Officer of the Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service, Brian Murray to host the programme. An online platform was provided to share information and facilitate more interaction for those who wanted to embrace the technology. We also incorporated more time for the participants to get to know each other and to share memories and photos of their time serving in the fire service.

Outreach – operational community In addition to offering programmes for our retired

beneficiaries, we have also piloted a programme in Glasgow with operational firefighters from three fire stations; Polmadie, Cowcaddens and Maryhill.

Members of the White Watch from these stations were invited to attend sessions at the station that covered role specific information. These included staying fit over the course of your career, eating for optimum health, managing sleep and shift patterns, developing and maintaining mental resilience and behaviour change. We were keen to deliver the programme to the whole watch so that they would be able to talk about the topics raised as a group.

The interactive programme was delivered by clinical team members from the Charity, and raised many questions and debates. Feedback from the groups suggested that the

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sessions on sleep and mental resilience felt particularly relevant to the participants, with most topics generating conversations among the participants and sometimes carrying on at home as well.

These were busy stations and delivering sessions was sometimes challenging due to the number of shouts that these crews attend, but the opportunity for us to provide them with up-to-date preventative information was welcomed on both sides.

Delivering programmes to our community has been a great experience and a privilege; we’ve met lots of beneficiaries over this period of time that we might not otherwise have made contact with. We’re in the process of evaluating all the feedback we’ve received.

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THE FIREFIGHTERS MEMORIAL MEDAL On 26 October 2017, The Fire Fighters Charity Chair, Andrew Lynch and CEO, Jill Tolfrey attended The Firefighters Memorial Medal presentation ceremony at Lambeth Palace in London.

The Medal was struck by The Firefighters Memorial Trust for presentation to the immediate next of kin of those members of the fire and rescue service who have died as a result of carrying out their duties and, who have met the criteria to be recorded on The Firefighters Memorial and within the Trust’s Book of Remembrance.

Since 1 January 2003, there are 33 names within the qualifying period. This date has been chosen as being the year that ‘The Blitz’ memorial, located

adjacent St Paul’s Cathedral, London, was adopted as the national memorial to commemorate the deaths of all members of the fire and rescue service, who have died as a result of their duties dating back to the 1700s.

The Medal is presented, mounted within a framed certificate on a suitable occasion agreed between The Trust and the nominated next-of-kin. The recent ceremony at Lambeth Palace was the largest event so far. Prior to this, presentations have taken place at events such as the unveiling of the new Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Fire Service Memorial, in Bury, and the presentation of awards ceremony at the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters.

The Medal is engraved on the obverse face with the Trust Crest. On the reverse face, within a pair of laurel wreaths, the medal is engraved with the details of the person being remembered and honoured.

The colours of the ribbon have been chosen to be symbolic of pride, strength and respect.

The Firefighters Memorial Trust is a charity by Royal Charter, managed by a dedicated Board of Trustees. The Trust exists to recognise the commitment and dedication of all United Kingdom Firefighters, (and those serving in designated British Overseas Territories), particularly those who have died as a result of their duties, serving the community.

The Trust’s primary aim is to ensure that all firefighters who

SHOUT+ GALLERY Graham Ashworth was formally a Firefighter with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. Following his retirement in 2009 he turned his hand to writing. His début novel ‘Man O’ The World’ was released in 2013 and ‘The Original Wag in 2014’. Both books mirror extraordinary life through the medium of contemporary fiction. He often incorporates fire service

themes and storylines in his books and he now has a number of books published and available to order or download on Amazon.

Are you an enthusiastic painter, poet, photographer, cartoonist, author or sculptor? Share your talent and we’ll publish it in future issues of the Shout+ Gallery. Send all entries to shout@firefighterscharity.org.uk.

38 39

have lost their lives, while serving humanity and, who meet the criteria, as defined by the Trust, are remembered and honoured.

An online Book of Remembrance has been created and is available for viewing and for adding tribute. This book, in addition to the names of those members of the fire service who have died in the course of their duties, has the known names of those members of the fire service who died in the course of military service dating back to the Boer War and the names of the many fire guards and fire watchers who died during World War Two. You can learn more about The Fire Fighters Memorial Trust by visiting www. firefightersmemorial.org.uk

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PAST AND RETIRED MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS We hope that you find this list useful, but if your association isn’t here and you’d like it to be, let us know by emailing us at shout@firefighterscharity.org.uk National Association of Retired Firefighters

www.narfire.org.uk

NARF Buckinghamshire

www.bucksvoice.net/narf

Durham and Darlington Retired Members Networking Group

www.xddfire.org.uk

ECFRS Retired Members Association

www.essex-fire.gov.uk/Media/Retired_Members_Association/

Hampshire Past Members Association

www.xhfrs.wordpress.com/welfare

NARF Hereford and Worcester

www.hwfire.org.uk/your_fire_service/narf.html

Humberside Retirement Page

www.facebook.com/HFRRP

London Fire Brigade Retired Members Association

www.lfbrma.org/

Find an old fire service friend

www.ex-fire.co.uk/lostfriends.html

NARF Sheffield and Rotherham

www.narfsheffield.org.uk

Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue ‘Old Hands’ section

www. twfire.gov.uk/oldhands

NARF West Midlands Branch

www.wmnarf.co.uk

Wiltshire Retired Firefighters Association

www.wrfa.org.uk/

FireNet

www.fire.org.uk

Chief Fire Officers Association

www.fire-uk.org

Keep fit by playing bowls, visit the FSSAA website

www.fssaa-bowls.co.uk

The Firefighters Memorial Trust

www.firefightersmemorial.org.uk

Worshipful Company of Firefighters

www.firefighterscompany.org

Department of Work and Pensions

www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-workpensions

Civil Service Pensioners Alliance

www.cspa.co.uk

National Pensioner’s Convention

www.npcuk.org

Kent Fire & Rescue Retirement Association

https://sites.google.com/site/rapieronlinenewsletter

Derbyshire NARF

narf.derbys@gmail.com

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Retired Employees Association

www.facebook.com/SFRSREA

The Avon Fire & Rescue Service Pensioners Association

www.avonfirepensioners.org

Disclaimer: This information was collated by The Fire Fighters Charity and to our knowledge was correct at the time of going to print. We cannot be held responsible for any changes to this advice or for any external links or information.

NARF CORNER: Happy anniversaries all round!

Ian Ferguson, retired firefighter and NARF News Editor reflects on a year of anniversaries for the fire and rescue community.

It’s a year of celebration for three organisations in our fire service community. Firstly we say congratulations to the Fire Brigade’s Union on reaching their centenary year and also to The Fire Fighters Charity on reaching its 75th year. During those years many of us have either benefited by the work of the Charity ourselves or know of others who have. The view of many members of our Association is, I’m sure, that while serving we valued the work and support of the Charity and

saw it as an integral part of the fire service.

It is for that reason that we were happy to fundraise for it as firefighters by crewing a vintage hand pump and pumping away in the town centre for 48 hours.

It’s also why we organised similar events such as team swims, numerous car washes, bucket collections and, on one occasion, a large glass water tank was obtained and located in the town centre as firefighters put on diving gear and played underwater cards.

These fundraising events are mentioned just to say the work of the Charity motivated us to do these things. So we say thank you to the Charity for the last 75 valuable years and give our best wishes for the work of the Charity in the years ahead.

Another anniversary in 2018 is our own as the National Association of Retired Firefighter’s reaches its Golden Jubilee year and turns 50 years old.

We’ve been helping to look after the interests of our members and their families since 1968 and in that time we’ve forged links with The Fire Fighters Charity, The Fire Brigade’s Union and other mutual agencies in order to help our members feel part of a valuable organisation that they can turn to for help or advice as and when they need it.

We want our members to feel they remain part of the fire brigade family and to help them to feel that they are not alone in times of trouble.

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NARF has around 8000 members nationwide and as part of the celebrations, every member will receive a commemorative gold plated 50th anniversary pin badge which will be sent out to them with their first copy of the Association’s quarterly magazine of 2018.

The magazine is an important part of NARF’s communications network, along with the website www.narfire.org.uk and also the Facebook page (search “National Association of Retired Firefighters”), which members can contribute to if they wish.

We really feel that our ties and bonds with The Fire Fighters Charity are strong and we plan to continue to maintain and strengthen them as time goes on.

Win up to

ÂŁ25,000 Sign-up via our website at firefighterscharity.org.uk/lottery or call our lottery hotline on 0870 759 8868

Play today!

Registered Office: The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6, Belvedere,Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. Promoter: Mrs K H Griffiths. The Fire Fighters Charity is licensed by the Gambling Commission (www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk).

No chances may be sold to a person under 16 years of age. Our social responsibility policy and full terms and conditions can be found on our website www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/lottery. If you, or someone you know, needs information and/or help with problem gambling, please call Gamble Aware on 0808 802 0133 or visit www.begambleaware.org Royal Patron Her Majesty The Queen

COMPETITION

WIN!

Autoglym, sponsors of The Fire Fighters Charity National Car Wash League, are giving Shout! readers a chance to win a bundle of their premium car care products worth approximately £130.

LYM AN AUTOBG UNDLE CAR CARE

Autoglym is a British manufacturer of premium car care and valeting products. They have supported The Fire Fighters Charity for a number of years by supplying car wash shampoo to the fire stations who take part in our National Car Wash League.

To win this great prize, simply send your answer to the question below, together with your name, address and a contact phone number to: shout@firefighterscharity.org.uk or Shout! Magazine, The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6, Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. To find out more about Autoglym and their range of products visit their website: www.autoglym.com

In what year did The Fire Fighters Charity’s first recuperation centre called Marine Court open its doors to beneficiaries?

A) 1960

B) 1965

C) 1995

The winner will be picked at random from all correct entries received on or before 31 July 2018 and will be notified via email or telephone.

Product bundle content may vary. Your information: The information you provide will be used by the Charity to fulfil your request. Your details may be used to keep you informed about the Charity – please call 01256 366 566 if you do not wish us to contact you.

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RUN IT, WALK IT, CYCLE IT or SWIM IT; this year we’re challenging you to take on 75 miles, any way you wish.

Join our 75th anniversary fundraising journey and help us support the fire service community for another 75 years.

Participate with friends, family and colleagues across the UK and help us to mark our 75th anniversary by signing up to #My75Miles.

A year-long challenge that’s accessible for all, whatever your fitness level.

Register today at: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/my75miles

Copyright © 2018 The Fire Fighters Charity. All Rights Reserved. The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6. Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. Registered charity in England and Wales (No. 1093387) and Scotland (SC040096)