Shout! Winter 2016

Issue 15 Winter 2016

Official magazine of The Fire Fighters Charity

www.firefighterscharity.org.uk

Love Story Find out how we helped Katie Love get back on the run

Spotlight On Chair and CEO Charity leaders on past, present and future

A Day At The Races

Car Wash winners go racing at Rockingham

hearing matters

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Editorial Well done Andrew and thank you for all your hard work.

Welcome to the Autumn/Winter 2016 issue of Shout! from The Fire Fighters Charity.

I’m delighted to introduce you to a packed issue that features some incredible fundraising stories. We have teams of inspirational long-distance cyclists, hundreds of temptingly talented bakers and the story of our triumphant car washers, all featuring across the coming pages. I’d also like to pay tribute to an incredible ten-year old super supporter – Andrew Impey – who you’ll read about on our Thank You pages. Andrew is raising money for us by visiting all 2,500 fire stations in the UK and Ireland and has built up quite a fan base on social media in the process. He has been welcomed into hundreds of fire stations already and is well on track to achieving his aim.

Of course it is the hard work, dedication and determination of fundraisers like Andrew – as well as the immense generosity of our donors and supporters – that continues to drive us all forward here at The Fire Fighters Charity. However, it’s been a challenging 18 months for the Charity, which has undergone some changes in recent months. So our Chair, Ken Seager, and I were delighted to join Shout! for an interview to discuss our immediate past, present and future, the results of which you can read on pages 26-29 and view on our YouTube channel.

Elsewhere in this issue you’ll meet Crew Manager Katie Love from Cleveland Fire Brigade who defied the odds to get back on the run after sustaining a knee injury at work, with a little help from our rehabilitation team at Jubilee House. Katie’s story is typical of so many beneficiaries who come through our doors each year. She desperately wanted to get back to work after her injury and we were able to

help her to do so. However, supporting just one person through two weeks of rehabilitation would require one donor to donate £10 every month for 25 years. And we provide rehabilitation to around 2,500 individuals every year.

This is why our Donate For A Mate campaign is asking our supporters to become regular donors, to increase their regular donations or to come together with a group to effectively donate in support of each other. The campaign has been running for about six months now and I am pleased to say is going well, although we still have a long way to go until we raise enough money each year to meet the cost of providing our services. A huge thank you to those of you who have donated already and, if you haven’t, please consider doing so.

Enjoy the magazine.

Dr Jill Tolfrey Chief Executive

Contents 4 Shout! about it

All the latest news from The Fire Fighters Charity

6 Events

Raise money by running, riding, baking, cycling or jumping

18 Thank You and Good Luck A special mention to the runners, riders, bakers and climbers who raise money for the Charity

20 Muffin Compares To You

7 @FFC

Tweets, posts, likes and shares

Cracking cakes, brilliant biscuits and fabulous flapjack, our Bake A Difference 2016 event had it all

9 Managing Jubilee

24 Commercial Update

Meet Andy Waterfield, Operations Manager at Jubilee House in Penrith, Cumbria

10 The mind JOGLEs

Meet Clive Durbin from the John O’Groats to Land’s End (JOGLE) team of two-wheeled fundraisers

12 Back On The Run

How Crew Manager Katie Love proved the doctors wrong to get back on the run

Read about a holiday rental boost and a recycling revolution

26 Challenging Times

33 Firefighting Fit

Introduced by Sharon Bailey, Director of Beneficiary Services

34 Water Works

Discover how a trip to your local pool can help your recovery, without going for a swim

36 Supporting You

Meet our new Advice, Information and Support Service Lead, Carrie Donohue

37 Understanding Carbohydrates

Myth busting complex carbs and free sugars.

What should you eat and why?

Our CEO and Chair discuss the recent past, present and future ambitions of the Charity

38 Shout+

30 Race Time

42 Competition

National Car Wash League winners, Bamber Bridge Fire Station, enjoy a day at the races

News and information for the retired community Enter to win £100 worth of fantastic Volvo merchandise

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

Customer Care Team: 01256 366566 and Helpline 0800 3898820 The Charity’s new Head Office-based Customer Care Team provides all beneficiaries, supporters, donors and customers with a single point of contact for all enquiries.

Beneficiaries looking to access any of the Charity’s services can contact Customer Care as a first port of call, from which point they will be guided to the most appropriate support person or service to meet their individual needs.

Advice, Information and Support Service Our new Advice, Information and Support Service – encompassing a Head Officebased Community Services Lead and five national Case Workers – will provide casespecific support to beneficiaries across areas such as social care, advocacy, adaptations and equipment provision, financial and

Making a will is one of those things that people routinely put off and around two thirds of adults in the UK do not consequently have a will that sets out what should happen to their estate in the event of their death.

It may be a gloomy subject to discuss and make decisions upon, but dying intestate – without a will – could have significant implications in regards to what happens to your money, property and possessions when you die.

In short, you don’t decide where or who it all goes to, the law does.

Introducing our new teams Ways in which beneficiaries and members of the public can contact and interact with the Charity have changed over recent weeks.

Here’s what you need to know:

Will you remember?

bereavement support. Working closely with our Registered Home Visitors the team will handle cases on a national basis, allowing for a cost effective, efficient and timely response to meeting our beneficiaries’ needs.

Rehabilitation services The Charity’s rehabilitation services are now focussed at Marine Court and Jubilee House, with a small, slow-stream rehabilitation programme in operation at Harcombe House that will focus on promoting wellbeing, improved mental health and physical capability. This slow-stream programme will suit beneficiaries with lifestyle / long term conditions who require a specific programme to meet their needs, and may be suitable for those who fall outside of the criteria for recuperation. The main programme, meanwhile, will predominantly operate across 4 and 6 days at Marine Court, and 4, 5, 7 and 10 days at Jubilee House.

The end result of this extensive body of work will be more beneficiaries helped in the right way, through the right support, delivered in the most appropriate way for each person.

Shout!

The Fire Fighters Charity has therefore compiled a free, no obligation will making booklet that sets out how to go about making a will. To receive your copy, complete the form available online at http:// tinyurl.com/FFCWMG Of course, you may also wish to consider leaving a gift in your Will to The Fire Fighters Charity.

The Charity regularly receives legacy gifts from former beneficiaries, all of which directly fund life enhancing support for future beneficiaries. If you do, thank you.

For further information or to speak to someone about leaving a legacy to The Fire Fighters Charity you can also speak to our Legacy Team on 01256 366566.

NEWS

News Shorts...

Marine Court couple tie the knot The Charity has always been proud of the services it offers to beneficiaries at its centres. However, it appears that it can also now add Matchmaking to this growing portfolio of health and wellbeing services.

News reached the Charity this summer that Sarah Lewis, a Service Co-ordinator from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service married Jim Cuthbert, a London Fire Brigade firefighter, after the pair met at Marine Court in November 2013.

“I was there for recuperation,” explained Sarah, “and Jim was there for his final two weeks rehabilitation following a skiing accident. You could say it was love at first sight!”

Sarah and Jim got married at the Guildhall in Windsor on 8th July 2016 and if anyone else has found love through The Fire Fighters Charity, you can share your stories with us via marketing@ firefighterscharity.org.uk

Elvis & Kresse cheque in The Charity’s Regional Fundraising Team Manager, Natasha Mason, visited upcycling champions Elvis & Kresse recently to collect a cheque donation for £10,200 from Kresse Wesling.

Long term supporters of The Fire Fighters Charity, Elvis & Kresse donate 50% of the profits from their Fire Hose Range to the Charity. They have been making annual donations since their launch and to date have donated a staggering £37,350.

Everyone at the Charity is immensely grateful to Elvis & Kresse for their continued support. You can find out more about Elvis & Kresse at www.elvisandkresse. com and buy some of their fantastic products through the Charity shop at www. firefighterscharity.org.uk/shop

Cheshire Choir Target Charts The Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Choir – made famous when they were brought together

by Gareth Malone for the BBC’s The Choir: Sing While You Work in 2013 – has recently released its debut single, an emotional recording of Bruce Springsteen’s The Rising.

The Fire Choir chose to release The Boss’s track – written as a tribute to those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 – following a visit to New York where its members performed it at Ground Zero Memorial Plaza.

Choir chair at the time of the trip was retired Station Manager Steve Flanagan. He said: “We were told by the 9/11 Memorial that we are the only choir belonging to a Fire and Rescue service that has ever sung at Ground Zero, so when we heard this we sang it for the 343 firefighters who died in the

attacks on the Twin Towers and on behalf of all our UK colleagues.”

Current Choir Chair Philip Marke, Watch Manager at Macclesfield Fire Station, has high hopes for the ambitious choir’s first single; “We really hope it does well,” he says, “not for us in any way, but because we want to raise as much money for The Fire Fighters Charity as we can. Everyone in the choir works for the fire service and The Fire Fighters Charity is there for us, and all fire personnel across the country, when we need them. It does fantastic work helping those of us, and our families, who are injured or ill and is there for us during those hard times when you need someone to lean on.”

You can buy the Choir’s single, The Rising, online at iTunes and Amazon Music now.

Charity wins Sainsbury’s Votes The Charity scooped the much sought after title of Sainsbury’s Charity of The Year at stores across the UK this summer.

Thirteen stores from London to Lincolnshire adopted The Fire Fighters Charity as their local charity of choice for the next 12 months following a competitive public vote. The success ensures that shoppers can donate to the Charity in store through a whole host of events, from cake sales to quiz nights.

Sainsbury’s Local Charity of The Year scheme has been running for six years – with 350,000 Sainsbury’s customers having voted – and has raised over £9m for local charities.

Natasha Mason, Regional Fundraising Manager, said of the scheme: “Winning these opportunities with Sainsbury’s is a real coup for the Charity. We are hugely grateful to Sainsbury’s and its customers at each store.

It is so important for us and for fire and rescue

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services to work closely with and to reach out to people and businesses at a local level.

“Sainsbury’s Local Charity of The Year scheme puts local communities at its heart, highlights the incredible work that firefighters do within their communities and how we support them as a Charity.”

EVENTS DIARY

Events

Dates with destiny

What better way to get through the coming wintery months than with an ambitious training schedule and a suitably challenging challenge? Wind, rain, snow…pah!

23 April 2017: Southampton Half Marathon pros too, organisers expect to attract approximately 10,000 runners in 2017. You can take part as a member of the The Fire Fighters Charity team and follow in the footsteps of The Flame too, who took part last year.

Details: Now in its third year, this popular South Coast half marathon navigates a stunning route that takes in coast, city, parks and the incredible 800-metre wide Itchen Bridge, which will be closed especially for the event.

A perfect race for first time half marathon runners and an exciting course for seasoned

How to enter: Simply register online at www. firefighterscharity.org.uk/ events.

Entry cost: Registration costs £29 (non-refundable) and once you register we will send you a fundraising guide and a Charity running vest as part of your welcome pack.

Minimum fundraise: £100

30 July 2017: Prudential RideLondonSurrey 100

Details: If you were inspired by the incredible achievements of Team GB’s cyclists in Rio, why not take on the London 2012 Olympic cycle route this coming July in the ever popular Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100?

with the finish in sight of Buckingham Palace on The Mall in central London.

Starting from the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the 100-mile route will take you through the capital into Surrey’s stunning countryside. With legtesting climbs it will be a truly spectacular, traffic-free event for all involved, culminating

Entry cost: Just £20

How to enter: Simply register online at www. firefighterscharity.org.uk/ events.

Minium fundraise: £599 (excluding Gift Aid) and once you register we will send you a fundraising guide and a Charity cycling jersey as part of your welcome pack.

The Fire Service 3 Peaks Challenge The Fire Service 3 Peaks Challenge is a twice-yearly event that pits firefighters from across the UK against the three highest peaks in England (Scafell Pike), Scotland (Ben Nevis) and Wales (Snowdon).

The ever popular event is looking to recruit firefighters for 2017 and is challenging stations, watches and departments from across the fire and rescue service to enter a team.

The minimum requirement for a team to be entered is four walkers and two drivers, with the maximum being nine walkers and three drivers.

For further information please call Event Director Ludo Macaulay on 01722 332211 or visit www. firefighters3peaks.co.uk

Skydiving

If you’re looking for a challenge that offers a serious adrenaline rush, few come more exhilarating than the prospect of jumping out of a small airplane at 10,000 feet, all in the name of The Fire Fighters Charity.

You can register online to complete a skydive for us – simply visit www. firefighterscharity.org.uk/

Shout!

skydive - and book yourself on to jump at a location that’s convenient for you.

The training and the jump are completed in one day and your instructor will be in control of your landing.

Dynamic, adventurous and exhilarating, skydiving gives you the freedom to make the skies your own, raising vital funds for the Charity in the process.

SOCIAL LIVES

FFC

Whether tweeting, posting, liking or sharing, you’ve been as busy as ever on our various social media channels. Here’s just a brief snapshot of recent online goings-on, but you can join the conversation for yourself on Twitter (@firefighters999) or on Facebook (/thefirefighterscharity).

Tweet spot Justine Allingham @pointyneedle

Cumbria Foundation @cumbriacf

Matt Brady @allotmentlad

The Firefighters charity were awarded £750 to purchase new nursing beds for their rehabilitation centre near Penrith

Tired,emotional and finished!!! 3861km, 48235m climbed, 17days, 17hrs, 59min. I even enjoyed (most of) it! #TCRNo4

Day 366 thanks to blue watch @Fareham17 challenge complete @Hants_fire @firefighters999 #charity #handstands

Bucks and MK Fire @Bucksfire

@NIFRS OFFICIAL @NIFRSOFFICIAL £1,370 raised for @firefighters999 in memory of 18yr old Ellen Finnegan

480-mile Western Front cycle ride to raise money for @firefighters999

Face to Face Natalie Edwards Spent two weeks at

marine court to help with my back. The staff were amazing and really helped to motivate me. The facilities were also amazing and I can’t thank you enough for all your help. I would love to come back one day!

John Everton Last night I was dj/

compere for one of your events in the northwest I would just like to say what an incredible charity it is. It is something I didn’t know anything about until last night.

No one thinks about brave firefighters getting injured both mentally and physically and I can say it is now a charity I will fully support.

John Perkins I just spent 2 weeks at

Marine Court. The staff are amazing & so committed to getting you well again.

Thanks to all concerned! A 5 star hotel but with a bit of pain thrown in! Ha.

Anthony Pemberton Hi I was at

Penrith in Febuary for 2 weeks after an

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Arthroscopy on my knee. The team were fantastic. Not only did it speed my return to Ops but assisted me in completing Cairns 70.3 Ironman in Australia in June.

Thanks especially to Thea in the physio department.

Feraz Younas Had a great time working with the fire fighters charity yesterday in Cumbria the organisation are doing a great job.

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MEET THE CREW

Managing Jubilee

By Andy Waterfield, Operations Manager, Jubilee House, Penrith

A

t school I was originally interested in outdoor education and I wanted to work in an outward bound centre. So I went to college and did a degree in recreation management. Then on graduation I got involved in the health and fitness industry where I worked for the next 20 years or so.

I initially worked for major health club chains managing clubs around the country. My initial move was to London from my home town of Leicester. I worked in London for about 12 years managing various clubs. Then I eventually moved up to Scotland and then to Cumbria. I also worked in Saudia Arabia for three years in the early 90s on sports management projects out there.

When I saw the advert for the role at Jubilee House for Operations Manager I was working at a health club in London. My partner is from Cumbria and we were looking to come back to the area. It was just coincidence that I saw the job advert. I didn’t know too much about the Charity at the time and it was a revelation when I eventually arrived at

Jubilee House to take on the role just over nine years ago.

The role has changed a fair bit over the intervening years but now I - together with my Operations Manager colleagues at the Charity’s other two centres - focus on generating income and ensuring our facilities are maintained to a high standard to enable us to provide quality services.

We continue to increase turnover at Jubilee House year on year.

We are not far short of £200,000 per year in terms of facility hire and merchandise and I am extremely proud of what the team here has achieved. Just like the other centres, we also receive fantastic testimonial feedback from beneficiaries following their stays with us.

I think there is a special atmosphere at all our centres and hopefully over the years since I have been Operations Manager that has continued and been enhanced at Jubilee House. It’s certainly hugely well regarded by our beneficiaries. The positive feedback we get every day makes Jubilee a great place to work, but we never take it for granted. On

our houses and bungalows just escaped the flood waters, but 2015 was unprecedented and overwhelmed our local defences.

The Centre itself came perilously Jubilee House is a huge site. It is close to flooding. We managed to a 10 acre site and a 42 bed facility escape any serious damage, but with four of these beds registered the properties were flooded and with the Care Quality Commission have only just been refurbished.

(CQC) which allows us to provide On both occasions we had to nursing care. So every day rescue the residents, many of there is something that whom are elderly and lacking comes up that needs mobility. I was very proud management of the staff who worked “The positive attention. There through the nights feedback we get are the core on both occasions every day makes things such to save our people Jubilee a great as facility and property. place to work, but management, I feel incredibly we never take it health and lucky to work in a for granted.” safety, customer place like Jubilee. It is service, staff a beautiful place and you management and are working for people who finance. But then there are genuinely appreciate what you reactive matters that need to be do for them. It is quite moving to sorted within the building. see the way people react to what We have had to deal with major you have done for them. This is events in recent years too, for everybody in the centre, not including two major flooding just for me. People are genuinely events that we experienced and often quite seriously moved in 2009 and 2015. On both by what they have learnt and how occasions the river running they have developed in their time through our grounds burst its at the centre. You never get tired banks and flooded the village. of that because not many people In 2009 we were fortunate as get that in their job. site beneficiaries are so supportive.

Last year they raised close to £38,000 by doing a raffle and weekly fundraising activities here.

8 9

MEET THE CREW

The mind JOGLEs

By Clive Durbin, JOGLE team member and Training Resources Officer, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. Clive, like thousands of other firefighters across the UK has gone to incredible lengths to fundraise for The Fire Fighters Charity. Here’s his story.

O

n May 13, 2016 I found myself as part of a team of 18 cyclists from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, together with our four person support crew, about to set off on an attempt to cycle 1,006 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End; a distance that reflected the 1,006 square miles of Oxfordshire covered by myself, my pedalpowered colleagues and firefighters across the county.

The team had three aims; to promote health and wellbeing, to raise an amazing £100,000 for The Fire Fighters Charity and to make it to Land’s End safe and sound. Each team member gave up their own time to undertake the ride, train and fundraise.

Our Chief Fire Officer, Dave Etheridge, a firefighter in the county for 30 years, was able to join us and together with the rest of the team we embarked on a journey that took a total of 14 days, riding approximately 80 miles a day and overnighting at

eight different Fire and Rescue Services; Scotland, Cumbria, Lancashire, Staffordshire, Oxfordshire, Dorset and Wiltshire, Devon and Somerset and finally Cornwall. Warwickshire, Royal Berkshire and Buckingham and Milton Keynes Fire and Rescue Services, meanwhile, provided us with some very welcome lunch stops as we travelled through their counties.

We were also joined by guest riders from several brigades as we travelled down the country, with the final distance ridden amounting to an impressive 1,018 miles!

It was an incredible team effort, with a huge amount to prepare before we even got near a bike.

Once on the road we found that some days were harder than others and I remember that when we turned up at the Charity’s rehabilitation centre at Penrith, on day five, we were later than expected, very tired but pleased to find that the Charity’s CEO – Dr Jill Tolfrey – had kindly set a much needed beer aside behind the Jubilee House bar for each of us.

Day 10 cycling through our home county was a bit special, giving us the chance to sleep in our own beds and to welcome family and friends along on the ride with us, for a small fee of course. The next day, however, the route took us past the spot where friend and colleague Joe Wilkins, an on call firefighter from Eynsham, was knocked off his cycle and killed while training for a John O’Groats to Land’s End Cycle Ride four years ago.

Joe had been with us in spirit throughout the ride, with team members taking it in turns to carry his name badge and Nominal Roll tally. We stopped to pay our respects there, meeting up with a crew from Eynsham, Nicci Saunders (Joe’s partner) and close family members to hold a short and extremely moving ceremony.

The ride wasn’t without its challenges and we experienced our fair share of injuries, navigation issues and punctures but over the two weeks we saw some amazing scenery and

Shout!

met some extremely generous people.

The journey provided us with so many memories, but the most abiding was that of the finish itself. As we rode over the brow of the hill on our final approach to Land’s End and looked down towards the finish we saw a huge crowd of supporters waiting to see us over the line. We rode towards them in a rough V shape, followed by a fire engine from Penzance with its blues flashing and led by the Chief, to burst through the tape that had been spread across the finish line. It was a moment none of us will ever forget.

Our thanks go to all the incredible people and organisations who sponsored and helped us. We couldn’t have done it without you. We hit our £100,000 target and it gives me – and everyone involved – immense pride to think that that money will be used to transform the lives of injured firefighters across the UK. Would I do it again? Most definitely.

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n o k c Ba n u r e th

her anterior d e p p a n s e v r Katie Lo ake Crew Manage t but defied the odds to m le en litt cruciate ligam et back on the run, with a dg a recovery an s Charity. r te h ig F e ir F e help from Th 12 13

BACK ON THE RUN

W

hich helmet do you want in the photos?” asks Katie Love as Shout! disrupts her day at Stockton Fire Station, Middlesbrough. “The yellow one or the white one!”

Crew Manager and acting Watch Manager Katie is in training to become a substantive Watch Manager and, in the interim, is assuming both duties with Red Watch at this busy community fire station. We meet on one of the hottest days of the year and, sportingly donning full fire kit, our photographer has her hopping in and out of appliances in search of the perfect cover shot. Thankfully Katie is back to almost full fitness and showing no sign of the horrific knee injury that stole her away from the job she loves in September 2015 and forced her on a road to recovery that led to The Fire Fighters Charity’s door.

The incident in question occurred following a shout with persons reported; “It was a night shift, two o’clock in the morning,” explains Katie. “The bells came in and we jumped on the wagon. On the way my Watch Manager said that it was a persons reported, which means that it was a house fire with possibly someone in it. So, we donned our sets and drove there.

“The area was difficult to navigate and we ended up not being able to quite get around to the property. Because there was smoke on arrival we made our way over a wall to get there, but unbeknownst to me there was a further drop on the other side and as I lowered myself down – with the full weight of the set – I landed and my knee snapped completely backwards.”

Talking of the incident with the same level head and calm approach that you can picture her presenting when taking control of a shout, Katie goes on to describe how she hobbled around to the front of the property, explained to her boss how she couldn’t go inside and, rather than worrying about her own situation, did what she could to help.

“I sat on the floor and did the BA board, with my leg out,” she chuckles. “Thankfully the incident wasn’t too serious. The other wagon turned up and pulled someone out of the fire. He had basically left a grill pan on, so it was more smoke than anything.

“Once it was all done and finished and the guy was packed off in an ambulance and everyone had packed away all the gear, my boss picked me up off the floor, stuck me on the

Shout!

BACK ON THE RUN

appliance and took me off to hospital.”

Leaving hospital with a leg brace and crutches, and subsequently told by a consultant following an MRI scan that she had snapped her anterior cruciate ligament, Katie underwent surgery four weeks after the accident. Doctors constructed a new cruciate ligament from part of her hamstring and from that date, in October 2015, she knew that she could begin her journey on the road to recovery.

“It was at that point that I first applied for rehabilitation and was offered a place on the programme at Jubilee House in January,” says Katie.

“For me, it was about getting my confidence back.”

“I wanted to do everything I could to get myself fit again and back to work. You can’t help but think; ‘If this doesn’t get fixed am I going to be stuck behind a desk for the rest of my career?’

That’s not for me, for sure, and you do get down about it.

“So when a couple of lads on shift said to get myself booked in. I filled in the forms and went for it.”

It was the first time Katie had approached the Charity for support but, as she goes on to explain, she’d been aware of the organisation for some time.

“I’ve always paid in to the Charity. I have paid out of my wages from day one and I’ve always seen ‘The Fire Fighters Charity’ at the bottom of my pay slip. That’s as far as my knowledge of the Charity went though really, other than knowing a few others who have been. I never thought it would be for me or that I’d need it.”

So, four months after her fall from the wall, Katie was full of optimism for her 10-day residential rehabilitation stay at the Charity’s Cumbria base.

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“I had quite high expectations of Jubilee,” she admits. “My recovery’s gone extremely well!

Even my hospital physio can’t understand how I’ve got back to work so quickly. Even though I’d gone just 13 weeks post-surgery, I went in with the expectation I’d be able to go back to work afterwards. For me, it was about getting my confidence back and making sure my knee could do what I thought it could.

The NHS wanted me to follow a programme that would have kept me off for 12 months, but when I took my report from Jubilee to my home physio, he said he was happy for me to go back to work.

Incredibly, Katie was back at work just a week after she attended Jubilee House, passing all the reinstatement training requirements – including hauling a 13-stone dummy up a flight of stairs, and she puts much of her miraculous recovery down to the team and her time on the programme.

“The whole experience at Jubilee was fantastic,” she says. “You can really see the improvement that you and others make over the course of the week. I was also fortunate enough to use the anti-gravity treadmill, on which I felt I could run a marathon!”

But, Katie goes on to explain, her stay wasn’t all about hard work in the gym or challenging sessions in the hands of the physios, there was an equally beneficial social side to the experience too: “There was lots of camaraderie – I met a girl with the exact same injury who had been struggling with it for 18 months.

She couldn’t believe I was 13 weeks out of surgery and looking to go back to work.

It spurred her on – we had a rapport and pushed each other.

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BACK ON THE RUN

“That was the same across the group. Indeed, there was a point five days in where I was sat during a bit of down time and someone asked what I was – what rank – and I realised we’d all been chatting for days and no one knew or had asked. It didn’t matter what you were – you were just there because you were trying to improve your health or get back to 100% fitness.”

Reflecting on her experiences over the previous few months and the difference her visit to Jubilee House made, it transpires that Katie has since graciously assumed an ambassadorial role for the Charity.

“I’ve encouraged a few people to get in touch with the Charity, for rehabilitation, rental breaks and recuperation,” she enthuses. “I’ve also informed people about the psychological

support as not a lot of people realise those guys are there. In fact, all the staff were fantastic the amount of different injuries and people they see – they deserve the great reputation that they have.”

Katie is also keen to stress how important it is for others to follow suit by donating; “I think it’s really important that people give money to the Charity. I was a typical firefighter Crew Manager, I paid money in to the Charity, but I didn’t really think about where it goes as I never thought I’d need it. And then something happens that you’re not expecting, at 2am on a job, and thankfully I’ve got that facility there. I’d tell anyone to contribute and to use it as it is fantastic. If you pick up an injury like mine, you are going to want The Fire Fighters Charity to be there.”

Energetic, enthusiastic and quick to berate Shout! for moaning about the heat after she had spent much of the morning in full fire kit, Katie Love is clearly passionate about her job and values the support she has been given to get back on the run.

“I like being operational,” she says. “Yes, I want to complete my Watch Managers [qualification] and get my own watch, and then maybe one day Station Manager, but right now I want to be on a watch, on a station for as long as possible.

I love what I’m doing.”

With that our interview comes to an end, Katie heads off to catch up with her colleagues, while Shout! ramps up the air conditioning for the return journey home.

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“I paid money in to the Charity, but I didn’t really think about where it goes as I never thought I’d need it.”

THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK

Fundraising focus All around the country, our fantastic supporters are always busy swimming, cycling, running, walking and washing cars (amongst other things) to help raise money for the Charity. Here, we say thank you to those who’ve already completed their challenges, and wish the best of luck to those about to! If you’d like to feature on these pages, just email shout@firefighterscharity.org.uk

Thank you...

Andrew Impey Ten-year-old Andrew Impey has smashed his £999 fundraising target for the Charity after embarking on an epic challenge to visit all 2,500 fire stations in the UK and Ireland.

A social media whizz, Andrew – @AndrewDaneUK #oneladschallenge – has been tweeting some incredible photos and videos throughout his travels and at the time of writing has chalked up 850 stations to date.

Now hoping to raise £1,943 – a sum that reflects the year the Charity was founded – Andrew is thoroughly enjoying his challenge and has been welcomed on to stations wherever he’s been.

Andrew is currently planning a cycling ride for the Charity and asking for donations on his JustGiving page; https://www.justgiving. com/fundraising/oneladschallenge

Blazing Saddles Cycle Group Blazing Saddles, a group of 10 cyclists, has completed an epic 1,300 mile ride to raise over £30,000 for five charities, including The Fire Fighters Charity. The group took on the gruelling journey from Oldham’s twin town in Kranj, Slovenia back to Oldham in just 11 days.

The group endured 12 hour days, through seven countries and climbed over 100,000ft during the challenge.

Organiser, Oldham firefighter Lee Cropper, said: “It was a real challenge, with just 11 days to cover 1,300 miles we averaged

“I am so chuffed I am helping firefighters,” he said. “As well as money I want to raise awareness of what the fire service does as well as put out fires and save lives.

I love everything about the fire service – my favourite bit is when they let me get in the fire engines!”

100 to 120 miles a day – there was one day when we hit 150. It’s all been for a good cause and even though we had the initial target of £40,000, we are happy with what we’ve raised.”

Steve Rhodes Forty-two peaks, 74 miles, 28,500 feet of ascent, all in under 24 hours. After two years of training, Steve Rhodes, ACFO for West Yorkshire ran the Bob Graham Round on 5-6 May in the Lake District. He finished his round in 23 hours 39 minutes with support from his friends and family as runners and ground crew. His elder daughter, Jo, even trained specifically so that she could run the last leg with him. You can still donate to this incredible achievement here http://bit. ly/1pOf1p6

Elvis & Kresse Our Regional Fundraising Team Manager, Natasha Mason, visited Elvis & Kresse in June to collect a cheque donation for

Shout!

THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK

Good luck...

Christmas Fundraising

courage. The Fire Fighters Charity gave Sharon and Steve much needed support by providing them with a recuperation break, and more recently have continued to provide invaluable support to Steve.

Steve is running 20 marathons in 2016 in memory of Sharon and raising money for the charities that have supported them and continue to support him. With only a handful of marathons left to go, Steve is looking forward to the remaining marathons ahead of him;

Join us in our Christmas fundraising competition. Any station or group running any Christmas fundraising event can enter.

Simply register your station with your regional fundraiser. The highest fundraising station in each region will win a hamper full of goodies. Speak to your Regional Fundraiser for more information.

• October 30th – Marine Corps Marathon, Washington DC

Steve Holder Last year Steve Holder lost his wife Sharon after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. Sharon fought this horrendous disease with great dignity and

£10,200 from Director Kresse Wesling MBE. Elvis & Kresse donate 50% of profits from its Fire Hose Range to The Fire Fighters Charity. The specialist reclamation and transformation lifestyle accessories maker has been making annual donations since its launch. Thanks Elvis & Kresse! Visit www.elvisandkresse.com to check out the incredible range of accessories made from reclaimed decommissioned fire hose.

Kev Challener Congratulations and thank you to Kev Challener who completed Ride London on 31 July for the Charity in just under five hours, despite a crash 30 miles in. Kev brushed himself off, twisted his handle bars back into shape, ignored the pain in his elbow and ankle and set off to finish the remaining 70 miles. A trip afterwards to A&E revealed a broken elbow! We wish

• November 6th – New York • November 26th – Saxon Shore Saturday • November 27th – Saxon Shore Sunday • December 18th – Portsmouth Coastal Waterside If you would like to sponsor Steve, please visit www.virginmoneygiving. com/20Marathons2016 and to follow his progress www.20marathons2016. wordpress.com

you a speedy recovery Kev and thanks for your bravery and determination.

Lewis Gilbert Five-year-old Lewis completed a station-tostation bike ride of just over 11 miles on Saturday 23 July for the Charity. He set off from Bispham Fire Station and arrived at Lytham Fire Station a few hours later. His Grandad is a retired firefighter with over 40 years’ service. So, if anyone could spare a pound or two, text LGIL99 and the amount to 70070. Could you have cycled 11 miles when you were five?

Chris Hickman and Alex Stanbury On 9-10 July motorsport enthusiasts Chris Hickman, Company Director at West Somerset Motorsport and Alex Stanbury

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entered the Nicky Grist Stages 2016 in aid of the Charity.

Most of the rally stages the pair competed on had been previously used in the World Rally Championship. In atrocious conditions Chris had to rely on Alex’s skills as a co-driver to guide him through the wet Welsh Forests.

They managed to secure second place in the Rally First Class and a solid 66th spot overall.

The Odiham Fire Show 2016 The Odiham Fire Show took place over the weekend of 6-7 August and the Charity was pleased to see so many visitors to its stall over the sunny weekend across which we raised a fantastic £1,063.95. There was a lot to see and do for the whole family including displays of firefighting through the ages, over 140 modern and vintage fire engines and fire engine rides for children, with the opportunity for them to use the hose in the arena.

BAKE A DIFFERENCE 2016

Muffin Compares to you In May firefighters and fundraisers across the country measured, sieved, mixed, rolled, baked, sculpted and iced a spectacular array of sweet treats to support injured firefighters across the UK. Here’s how they all baked a difference in 2016.

F

undraisers across the country take on some incredible challenges for The Fire Fighters Charity every year, from running marathons to climbing mountains, cycling continents and tackling triathlons. In May 2016, however, hundreds of them swapped crampons and trainers for rolling pins and aprons, competing to bake cakes worthy of the Charity’s Golden Rolling Pin trophy and to feed an army of bake sale patrons hungry to hand over cash in exchange for the chocolate brownie or Victoria Sponge of their dreams.

Bake Sales took place across the country, in fire stations, halls and offices – including a ferociously well attended bake sale at Shout! HQ. At stake was the much sought after Golden Rolling Pin trophy – awarded to the venue that raised the most money – and a hamper of chocolate for the 2016 Star Baker, chosen by our Head Judge Mat Riley, former ‘Bake Off contestant and Shout!’s resident baker.

After much deliberation the Star Bake award for the most spectacular cake was deservedly scooped by Bex Jacklin from Linton in Cambridgeshire. Bex created

Shout!

a superb miniature version of Linton Fire Station in chocolate sponge with chocolate ganache. The Golden Rolling Pin, meanwhile, went to the real Linton Fire Station in Cambridgeshire for raising an amazing £1,250 from its open day and bake sale. A special Highly Commended basket of chocolate also made its way to Witney Fire Station in Oxfordshire, which raised an incredible £1,060 from its bake sale alone.

Here’s a small taster of the hundreds of delectable images we received during 2016’s Bake A Difference event. Roll on 2017!

BAKE A DIFFERENCE 2016

Star Bake bex jacklin

Crook Durham, Flames

Mersey Fire, Jean Crimmins

Norfolk FRS Mersey Fire, Faye Disley

Mersey Fire, Ruth Ballor-Wilson

Norfolk FRS, Hose cake

The Golden Rolling Pin Trophy

Linton fire station, cambridgeshire

Gateside, Margaret Barnes, Strawberry shortcake

Norfolk FRS, Logo cakes

Norfolk FRS, Firefighter with hose cake

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MERCHANDISE OFFERS

Winter wonderland Got a birthday coming up? Or a special event?

Visit our webshop for lots of great gift ideas.

1. Fire Fighters Charity Round Neck T-shirt (black, navy) £10.00

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2. ‘English Firefighter’ T-shirt (navy) £10.95

3. ‘Scottish Firefighter’ T-shirt (navy) £10.95

4. ‘Welsh Firefighter’ T-shirt (navy) £10.95

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5. ‘UK Firefighter’ T-shirt (navy) £10.95

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6. ‘Retired Firefighter’ T-shirt (navy) £10.95

7. Fire Fighters Charity Polo Shirt (black, navy, white) £14.95

8. ‘Retired Firefighter’ Polo Shirt (navy) £14.95

9. Baseball Cap (red, blue) £5.00 10. Scania Aerial Rescue Pump Mid and West Wales FRS £22.00 11. Fire Engine with Ladder £6.00 12. Water Bottle £5.99

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13. Fleece Hat (Red or Navy £9.50) 14. Fire Fighters Charity Fleece Jacket (red or navy £29.95)

15. Fireman Sam Push Along Toy Collection (Rescue Helicopter/Jupiter Fire

Engine/Ambulance/Titan/Quad Bike/Neptune/ Mountain Rescue/Venus – sold separately £9.99

16. Fireman Sam Giant Dominoes £7.99

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17. Travel Mug (£5.95) 18. 11” Blaze Bear cuddly toy £8.00 19. Children’s Fire Cadet T-Shirt (red, blue, white) £5.00 Age 5-6 years

20. “Saved” Decanter and Glasses set £114.00

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21. NEW Child’s Hoody (black) £14.95

Ages 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 10-11

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VISIT www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/shop or call 01256 366566 All prices exclude postage and packaging.

Shout!

MERCHANDISE OFFERS

Discover our box of delights Here’s a brilliant and simple way to fundraise for us at your next open day or event. Simply order one of our Shop-In-A-Box boxes, set it up, sell to your visitors and pay-in the proceeds.

Here are a few of the things you’ll find in your next box order…

Children’s Neenaw T-shirt

What to do…

To order your Shop in a Box call 01256 366566 or email siab@ firefighterscharity. org.uk Please give us a few weeks’ notice if possible. Your box will be delivered 3-4 days before your event

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Reflective armband and PVC fire engine torch keyring

Baseball cap

Frisbee

Acrylic Neenaw mug

Using the price list provided, display and sell the stock at your event.

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After the event, pack any unsold stock back into the box and return it to us, paying the money raised into the bank.

Full instructions are provided in the box.

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Rescue IQ car –fire

Blaze Bear

Stationery set

Drawstring bag

35 piece Fireman Sam puzzle

Fire Engine with ladder and Fire Engine no ladder

For a full list of items in the box, or for more information, visit www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/shop and select ‘Shop in a Box’.

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COMMERCIAL UPDATE

Harcombe Holidays Boost Charity sees rise in rental breaks Booking a rental break at Harcombe House, Marine Court or Jubilee House offers beneficiaries and holidaymakers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a break away, while also supporting and directly contributing towards The Fire Fighters Charity.

With beneficiaries receiving discounted rates on holiday rentals at Harcombe House compared to members of the public, holidaying at the Charity’s Devon base proved hugely popular over the summer. The site’s 20 bungalows sold out over the whole of August and the Charity was delighted to welcome beneficiaries and members of the public over the course of the summer. Feedback from both was positive and will help us to make the whole experience even better in 2017.

If you holidayed at Harcombe House this summer, or at any stage in the past, the team would love to hear

about your experience. You can get in touch by emailing marketing@firefighterscharity.org.uk For information on the latest availability and offers for autumn breaks at any of our three centres beneficiaries can call them directly on the following numbers: Harcombe House: 01626 853639 Jubilee House: 01768 890009 Marine Court: 01903 735928

Rags to Riches Be part of the recycling revolution Adding a recycling bank to your station forecourt – or taking your old clothes along to an existing Fire Fighters Charity clothes bank – is perhaps the simplest way of all to raise money and support injured firefighters across the UK. Since we introduced clothes recycling in 2009 we have raised over £2,000,000 and collected over 2,000 tonnes of clothing, diverting it away from landfill. The scheme has grown every year since and this year we have targeted £450,000 from recycling in total.

The Charity is always on the lookout for new stations, so if you think that your station and local community may benefit from a recycling bank, please get in touch with Kevin Biles, Sales Manager on 01256 366573 or kbiles@firefighterscharity.org.uk.

Shout!

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FROM THE TOP

Challenging Times Joined by Chair, Ken Seager, and Chief Executive Dr Jill Tolfrey, Shout! took the opportunity to ask the Charity’s leaders what the highlights and challenges have been over the past 18 months and what the impact for beneficiaries will be as we look to the future.

T

he number of beneficiaries supported by The Fire Fighters Charity has increased significantly over the past 18 months, with 2,451 completing a residential rehabilitation programme, 2,053 benefitting from a recuperation break, 492 supported through our Beneficiary Support Services and Helpline and 111 through the Charity’s Child and Family Programme in 2015/16. However, the Charity has also had to undertake a significant review of its operations and internal processes in order to address a downturn in income.

Shout!: There’s obviously lots to talk about from the last 18 months, but with beneficiary numbers up across the board there must be plenty to be proud of?

Ken: I would agree. The fact that more people seek our services year on year and we are able to meet that demand is something that causes me a great deal of satisfaction as Chairman. It’s not only the quantity of services but the quality as well.

I consistently hear from beneficiaries that they had a fantastic experience with us, but more important than that they go away and they are better as a result of coming to us.

Shout!: Where has the Charity seen the biggest increase in demand for its services?

Jill: The biggest increase has been around mental health support. Since we first developed our mental health services two years ago we have seen a year on year increase. I think it is testament to the fact that mental health is now being recognised with the same seriousness as physical health problems.

Shout!: Looking at the financial position of the Charity, at its simplest level the figures suggest that income was down and expenditure was up in 2015/16. Why

Shout!

was this the case and was it expected?

Jill: What we have is actually an agreed deficit. We knew that we were going to invest in services and we did it at a time when surpluses were reasonable. What we couldn’t legislate for was the change in the environment in regards to the austerity agenda and many more pressures on the pound in everyone’s pocket, which means people are less likely to give to the Charity. All charities are suffering from the same problem, this is something that

FROM THE TOP

affects everyone. So what we need to look at now is how we can redress the balance and ensure that we provide the services in the most efficient and economical way possible, in other words ensuring that every penny we spend is spent in the best possible way.

Shout!: Why, when income was in that downward trend was expenditure allowed to increase?

Ken: It’s become much more dramatic in the last three or four years. It was probably manageable before because the Charity has good reserves. We weren’t complacent but there was no indication until two or three years ago that things were becoming serious. And it’s a confluence of two things, the downward trend in income was continuous but what we have seen is this significant increase in demand for our services. We have been victims of our own success in that regard and the gap has grown to a point where we are just not sustainable at the moment.

Shout!: How difficult is it for us as a charity to be agile enough to keep up with the

deal with operationally. We have an agile senior leadership team, we spend a lot of time understanding what is going on in the Ken: Well, we have to be. It is difficult but fire and rescue service and we understand we are probably in a better position to do what our role is in terms of being a health that now than we have ever been. We and wellbeing service provider. I often say have three serving chief fire officers on the that as a charity we sit between the Board of Trustees, these are people UK fire and rescue service on whose day to day job is running one side and the statutory the fire and rescue service sector for health and social “What we need to of the United Kingdom. care on the other and we look at now is how One of them is a former have to weave a path we redress the president of CFOA, so between those two great balance and ensure we are very well plugged monoliths in terms of that every penny we into what is happening what we provide. So it is in the service now and spend is spent in the about planning for what what is in the Government’s best way possible.” our beneficiaries need mind for the next two or three now but also what they will years. There’s no doubt that the potentially need in the future. So changes will have an impact for the we are starting to do much more in Charity, we will have a smaller donor base, regards to mapping beneficiary profiles and it will be harder to get to those people to understanding what it is like to be a firefighter sell the Charity to them and as more people in different parts of the country. Getting to retire this will increase the demands on see what the particular demands are on a the Charity in the future. So that’s a triple firefighter in regards to their role but also whammy of challenges. understanding the general demographics Jill: Change is the only constant that we around health and the changing population pace of change within the fire and rescue community?

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FROM THE TOP

so that we have an idea of what is likely to be the most in demand service. So we use that and develop a strategic plan for 3-4 years which gives us a vision for moving forward.

Shout!: This summer the Charity underwent a substantial programme of change resulting from a sustainability review led by the Board of Trustees. Can you talk us through the reasoning for that review and what it looked at?

made up of members of the Board and Senior Leadership Team. SLT did some preparatory work ahead of the group’s first meeting to explore some options for addressing the income gap.

There were 10 options in total.

We looked carefully at all of them and we didn’t discount anything until we had weighed them up thoroughly, but by the end of the day we came down to a couple of proposals that seemed to make sense. Eventually there was a unanimous decision that the option we have pursued was the right one to take. I then prepared a paper for the full Board, which went to them in November. It was well debated, discussed and challenged, there was a request for further information, facts and figures in support of the option we were proposing.

“We have not cut our services, we have just changed how we deliver them”

Ken: We had reached a point in the Board’s mind where we couldn’t ignore the growing deficit any longer. I think to do so would have been a dereliction of our principal duty to ensure that the Charity has a future and remains solvent. It was March/April last year when we said this had to be addressed and in July the Board established a sustainability review group, chaired by myself and

At the February Board meeting I am very

Shout!

pleased to say that it was the Board’s unanimous decision that this was the right direction of travel and it remains unanimous in its support for the direction we are taking.

Jill: There is a full audit trail of everything that we did. Every option was risk assessed.

We were very clear that we had to have that audit trail because this was a grave decision in terms of change. But I have to say that it’s about changing what we do, rather than about cuts. We have not cut our services, we have just changed how we deliver them. The whole focus was on making sure we did the best for our beneficiaries and we really came at it from the perspective of doing more for more beneficiaries within the same financial envelope. That led to us doing a forensic review of all the centres and Head Office in terms of how we are spending money.

It became clear that we could spend money differently and do more.

Shout!: What have the outcomes of the review actually been?

FROM THE TOP

Jill: We have an increased capacity for rehabilitation and recuperation.

Rehabilitation in the traditional sense, in which beneficiaries will know it, is now concentrated in Jubilee House and Marine Court. We have increased the provision at Marine Court which will operate over a 6-day period. We have recuperation still at all three centres and we will also be running a slow-stream rehabilitation programme at Harcombe House that is designed to help beneficiaries who have lifestyle or long term conditions and who require a specific programme to meet their needs. This programme may be suitable for those who fall outside of the criteria for recuperation, and will indeed be more appropriate for them.

Shout!: A lot of the outcomes you’ve talked about relate to the centres, but Head Office and indeed the Senior Leadership Team also came under the spotlight during the review didn’t they?

Jill: The Senior Leadership Team has been reduced to four people and we have looked at Head Office. We have brought together three separate teams – Customer Services, Supporter Care and the Helpline team – into one central Customer Care Team as a single point of contact for people contacting the charity. But across the board we are

looking at lean working and being slicker and smarter with how we are doing things.

Shout!: And in terms of funding the future of the Charity, I believe that there is currently an income generation strategy that is being pulled together to explore all possible options on this front?

Jill: Yes. We have never been that good as a charity at asking people directly for money or in indicating to people how much we would like them to consider giving. The Donate For A Mate campaign is really the first time we’ve asked people to consider giving £8 so that we receive £10 with Gift Aid. With the new structures around fundraising and income generation we are developing a much more robust income generation strategy. We are also changing our view point and looking at being ambitious and aspirational about what we can achieve going forward.

Shout!: What’s the timescale for the Charity in regards to pulling it up and out of its deficit position?

Jill: We are looking at a sustainable budget by 2020. That doesn’t necessarily mean zero though as we feel a sustainable budget may be slightly negative, but it would be a negative level that would be

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE

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manageable within the reserves.

Shout!: Can you share what’s going to be in the new strategic plan for the charity?

Jill: We are looking at a strategic plan for 2017-2020 which will have a range of different elements in it around services, the quality of our clinical provision, looking at community development and research and development so that we have a much greater evidence base for the work that we do. We are looking to have that direction of travel signed off at the November Board, with the underpinning budget signed off in February.

Shout!: Where do you both see the Charity in five years’ time?

Ken: I think it will be a much stronger organisation than it is now. I think it will have a higher standing in the fire and rescue service, I think it will have a greater reputation amongst the general public and I think at that point it will certainly be in a sustainable situation.

Jill: I would like to think that in five years’ time we are a £10m organisation, we have really robust quality assurance mechanisms across the piece, we are well known within the FRS, we are much better known publically and we are developing strong links with the NHS. I think it is really positive.

Visit www.youtube.com/firefighterscharity

NATIONAL CAR WASH LEAGUE

Sponsored by Autoglym

RACE TIME

National Car Wash League Champions for 2015/16, Bamber Bridge Fire Station, enjoyed a memorable day at the races this summer courtesy of sponsors AutoGlym. Next year it could be you!

Left to right: Stuart Howarth, Tom Worrall, Mark Bendall, Jez Baldwin, Aron smith (BTCC driver), Jamie Plant, Will Magowan, Scott Nickson, Tony Nickson, Wyane Dixon, James Aubrey-Williams

B

ritish Touring Car Championship pit lane access, behind the scenes tours, meeting the drivers, grid walks and full hospitality… it was a prize worthy of champions and in August our National Car Wash League victors, Bamber Bridge Fire Station, descended on the famous Rockingham race circuit in Corby to enjoy the spoils of the win that followed the £8,040.11 they raised for the Charity in 2015/16.

Generously donated by our event sponsors, AutoGlym, the winners were given full behind the scenes access and a guided tour of garages by AutoGlym Chief Executive Paul Caller.

Bamber Bridge Crew Manager, Scott Nickson, said of the day: “It was brilliant, beyond what I thought it would be. To go there and experience that, watching the races in the pits with some of the crew and their families, to see the cars up close, do a pit walk and enjoy the hospitality. It was a vast experience and one we just wouldn’t have got without winning the competition.

“AutoGlym and Paul Caller, their Chief Executive, were fantastic. What he was able to do for us through his connections just made the day for us, it really was amazing. I should also give a shout out to Mark Bendall who coordinated the car wash across the whole station at Bamber

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“It was a vast experience and one we just wouldn’t have got without winning the competition”

NATIONAL CAR WASH LEAGUE Bridge and to Alan Knell, the Charity’s Regional Fundraiser for the North West, who helped us out a lot.”

With the 2016/17 National Car Wash League now underway, Scott was also in no doubt what the challenge will be for every other competing station in the UK; “Our name is on the trophy and it would be nice to see it there again, or if not us then one of the other stations in Lancashire,” he enthused.

“So to everyone else out there, bring it on, take it off us if you can, but we’ll be trying our best to retain the title and raise as much money as we can.”

AutoGlym Chief Executive Paul Caller (second right) shows the crew around

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RECUPERATION

Recuperation Explained

By Sharon Bailey, Director of Beneficiary Services

During the course of our lifetime many of us will experience an unforeseen life changing event. These events can often be traumatic and it is during difficult times such as these that The Fire Fighters Charity recognises the benefit of recuperation.

The Charity has recently carried out a review of the recuperation service. This article is designed to help you understand the changes and how they may apply to you.

What is recuperation?

Recuperation forms part of the Charity’s health and wellbeing services and beneficiaries who need this service will be able to stay at one of our centre’s for seven days on a self-catering or full board basis. There is no programmed activity for recuperation and no input provided by our clinical teams.

At set times guests may be able to access the leisure facilities available at each centre.

When is recuperation offered?

Recuperation may be suitable for beneficiaries who have had an unplanned hospital

admission due to serious illness or surgery, or may be needed following the loss of a partner or child. Recuperation may also be appropriate for those who require a period of rest following a life limiting / terminal diagnosis or who are undergoing a chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment programme for cancer.

All applications are assessed on an individual basis.

When is recuperation not offered?

Recuperation is not provided for beneficiaries who have had routine planned surgery (e.g. joint replacements) or for those who have longstanding conditions such as type 2 diabetes, arthritis, fibromyalgia etc. This is because rehabilitation is generally more appropriate to meet these needs.

What are the alternatives?

If you do not meet the criteria for recuperation then the Charity may be able to meet your needs through our rehabilitation service. Rehabilitation is provided at Jubilee House and Marine Court with Harcombe House providing a new modified rehabilitation programme with a specific focus on health and wellbeing. This programme is especially suited to beneficiaries who may have previously accessed recuperation, but who would benefit from attending an activity-based programme.

charitable services, the Charity is pleased to offer rental accommodation at all of its centres (subject to availability).

How do I apply for recuperation?

If you would like to apply for any of the Charity’s services please contact the Customer Care Team free on 0800 389 8820. The team will be happy to discuss your needs and direct you to the most appropriate service to meet them. If this is recuperation then you will be sent an application pack to complete.

What happens next?

Once you have returned your application this will be assessed and, if your application is approved, then you will be contacted by a Centre Administrator to arrange the dates of your stay. Recuperation is generally offered within 12

In some cases it may be that we can support you with accessing other services or local provision that is more appropriate to meet your needs. If this is the case then a Community Caseworker may contact you to discuss this further.

If you are simply looking for a break away and do not have a need to access one of our

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weeks of your application being received.

If you do not meet the criteria for recuperation you will be advised of this in writing. If there is a more appropriate service to meet your needs, for example rehabilitation or more specialised provision in your local area, then we will advise you of this.

How much does it cost?

There is a nominal charge for recuperation and charges will also apply to any additional persons who may need to attend with you. There is no charge for beneficiaries participating in the rehabilitation programme, however again a charge is applicable for any accompanying guests and this will be subject to availability.

If you would like further information on any of our services please contact the Customer Care Team on 0800 389 8820.

FIREFIGHTING FIT

Water works Jubilee House Exercise Therapist Chris Hodgson discusses the incredible difference a trip to the pool and a few simple exercises can make to injury recovery.

Beneficiaries attending a rehabilitation programme at any of The Fire Fighters Charity’s centres will find that hydrotherapy forms an integral part of their experience, and with good reason as it is a proven and beneficial form of exercise and can make a significant difference for people about to have or recovering from surgery.

Many of our beneficiaries who are awaiting an operation can also benefit from a trip to the pool and some pre-operative conditioning, such as muscle building and toning, prior to surgery, without further damage to affected joints. Indeed, in certain cases the building up of muscle before surgery can reduce your rehabilitation time afterwards, as well as making the whole process easier. Having said this, it is always important that you consult your physician before commencing a new exercise programme.

Hydrotherapy is a term that essentially covers any controlled aquatic exercise in heated sanitized water. However, it can be further attributed to any form of treatment using water, such as hot tubs, cold water treatments, ice packs, vapours, saunas and mineral springs.

Here at the Charity we deliver hydrotherapy as a form of water-based exercise, in both our normal leisure pools and our super-heated hydro pools. Its value derives from the effects the warmth and pressure of the water, together with the buoyancy, can have on the body. Some of the main benefits are:

The beneficial effects of water-based exercise can be achieved quite simply at your local leisure centre. Simply walking in the shallow end, with the water at hip height, will help increase strength, balance and coordination. Doing side steps, backwards walking, marching and zig-zagging through the water will all be beneficial. Any form of PAIN FREE movement whilst in water will help keep you in good condition.

Including water-based exercise in your normal routine has many benefits. Here are a few simple exercises to try the next time you’re in the pool.

• it allows non weight-bearing exercise • it offers relief from pain, swelling and stiffness • it allows joint mobilisation • it offers good cardiovascular fitness (heart and lungs) • it helps to strengthen muscles • maintenance and restoration • it can provide an increase in range of motion of affected joints and • it can help improve circulation.

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Exercise 1: normal walking Method: In waist height water, walk one width of the pool.

1

Exercise 2: Marching walk

2

Considerations: • Use a woggle or the side of the pool for support.

2

Considerations: • Use a woggle or the side of the pool for support.

• The higher the water up the torso, the more support it offers.

• The higher the water up the torso, the more support it offers.

Progression: Walk faster

Progression: Moving slowly makes this exercise harder

Scaled Option: Walk slower

Scaled Option: Don’t raise the knee too high if you have limited movement at the knee or hip

Exercise 3: Zig zag walking Method: In waist height water, step to the left at 45 degrees, bring feet together, step to the right at 45 degrees. Walk 1 width of the pool.

1

Method: In waist height water, march by raising one knee to hip height and complete one width of the pool.

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2

Exercise 4: Tightrope walking

3

Method: In waist height water, walk ‘heel-to-toe’ slowly as though you are on a tight rope. Walk one width of the pool.

Considerations: • This can be difficult post knee or hip replacement and can be unadvisable.

Considerations: • Be careful not to slip; don’t step too wide.

• Use a woggle or the side of the pool for support.

• Use a woggle or the side of the pool for support.

1

2

3

4

• The higher the water up the torso, the more support it offers.

Progression: Take a bigger step or balance on one leg instead of finishing on two legs

Progression: Raise your knee high in a march before putting your foot down Scaled Option: Slightly separate the feet so you are on a ‘wide tight rope’

Scaled Option: Smaller step

Exercise 5: Squats Method: In waist height water, heels shoulder width apart. Push hips backwards and sit into a squat. Keep heels on the ground.

1

Exercise 6: Single leg balance

2

Method: In waist height water, walk one width of the pool, pausing to balance on alternate legs.

1

Considerations: • Use a woggle or the side of the pool for support.

Considerations: • Use a woggle or the side of the pool for support.

• The water will likely be moving around and unbalance you. This is good.

• Try to use both legs equally.

Progression: Close your eyes

• Don’t go too far if it hurts.

Progression: Do lots of them

Scaled Option: Hover your foot close to the ground to make subtle adjustments and support as necessary.

Scaled Option: Do a ¼ squat

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3

ADVICE, INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICE

Supporting you in your local community

By Carrie Donohue, Community Services Lead

During the course of our lives, many of us will experience illness, injury or an unforeseen event that requires some additional support or guidance from others to help us through a difficult time.

The Charity recognises that not all beneficiaries will require the health and wellbeing services that are delivered through its residential centres, but may require longer term support at home or when accessing services in their local communities.

The Charity is therefore here to help support beneficiaries in times of need by providing

national services such as advice, information and support in addition to our centre-based rehabilitation and recuperation services.

The Charity’s Advice, Information and Support Services team is able to offer information in respect to all Charity services and can direct you to the service that best meets your needs, as well as offering advice and onward signposting to other organisations. The team is on hand to offer confidential, impartial advice and information on a wide range of issues that affect and impact everyday life, providing practical assistance and supporting you to identify solutions to meet individual needs and improve quality of life.

The Charity recognises that each individual’s circumstance is unique and requires a person-centred approach. We can offer support with issues concerning: • Disability and ill health: mobility needs, adaptations, specialist equipment • Social care issues: Statutory provision, grant funding advice

• Advice and signposting to other organisations

The team, which is led by myself includes Case Workers Jeanne “The Charity D’Amario; Clare Kennefick; recognises that Karen each individual’s Lane; Irene circumstance Ramsden, is unique and Sharon requires a personDobson and centred approach” approximately 100 volunteer home visitors.

• Welfare rights and welfare benefits support • Financial hardship • Advice and guidance following bereavement

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• Referral to the Charity’s centre services

If you need to access the Advice, Information and Support Service please call the Customer Care Team on 0800 839 8820, Mon-Fri 8am-6pm.

FIREFIGHTING FIT

Understanding carbohydrates Harcombe House Exercise Therapist and nutritionist Rob Smith on the myths surrounding carbohydrates honey, sweetened yoghurts and fruit juice. Free sugars are linked to tooth decay and obesity.

WHAT TYPE OF COMPLEX STARCHY CARBOHYDRATE DO WE NEED?

The role of carbohydrates in our diets is commonly misunderstood, what’s the true picture? What are carbohydrates and how much of them should we be eating?

Anything with the word ‘whole’ in front is a good choice, like whole wheat, whole oats, wholemeal bread. Other good complex/starchy carbohydrate includes brown rice, barley, quinoa, rye and potatoes (with the skin on). Wholegrains contain 75% more nutrients than refined carbohydrate (such as white bread and pasta).

They are packed with fibre, B vitamins, folic acid, protein, and antioxidants. Wholegrains are made up of three layers; the bran (a fibre rich outer layer), the germ (a nutrient-packed inner part) and the endosperm (a central starchy part).

SO WHY IS REFINED CARBOHYDRATE DIFFERENT? Although classed as a complex/starchy carbohydrate these products - such as white bread or pasta - have undergone a high refining process, removing the bran and germ from the grains and resulting in a carbohydrate that releases its energy very quickly. This can lead to large fluctuations in blood sugar levels and creates a product which is easy to consume and can lead to over eating.

HOW MUCH COMPLEX/ STARCHY CARBOHYDRATE SHOULD WE BE EATING THEN? As a general rule, a portion the size of your fist at meal times is appropriate if you are an active person. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, on the

SUGAR? The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends no more than 30g (7 teaspoons) of free sugars per day. Free sugar is a term used to describe any sugar that has been added to a product, which also includes honey, syrups and fruit juice.

Products which are high in free sugars include cakes, biscuits, maple syrup, fizzy drinks, sweets,

36 37

other hand, then a cupped hand would be sufficient.

DO CARBOHYDRATES MAKE YOU FAT? Any surplus calories from carbohydrate, fat, protein and alcohol will lead to the storage of fat. If the type of carbohydrate we are consuming is refined and high in free sugars then it is very likely that we will over eat and gain weight. If we are aware of our portion size and choose carbohydrates which are wholegrain or unrefined, whilst limiting our free sugars, carbohydrate should be forming a healthy staple of our diet and help us to maintain a healthy weight.

In summary, carbohydrates are an important nutrient for our body, particularly wholegrains, but we should be aware of our portion sizes and limit our free sugars.

SHOUT+

Shout+

Retire, renew, refresh, review and rewind

DONATE FOR A MATE UPDATE In the last issue of Shout+ we introduced you to the Charity’s new Donate For A Mate fundraising campaign.

The campaign aims to raise awareness amongst current and former members of the fire and rescue service of the importance of donating to support The Fire Fighters Charity, not necessarily for themselves but to ensure that the Charity is also there to support their friends and colleagues, or former colleagues, when they’re in need.

The Fire Fighters Charity supports hundreds of retired firefighters every year through its health and wellbeing services, both at its centres and in communities across the UK. However, an increase in the number of beneficiaries being supported and a decrease in fundraising income over recent years has meant that raising the funds to sustain these services for as many beneficiaries as possible has become a challenge that the Charity has had to address.

Donate For A Mate aims to highlight the importance of continuing to support the Charity once you leave the service. Your eligibility to make use of our services doesn’t change once you retire and we’re asking you to consider maintaining your donations in line with this.

Since launching the campaign we’ve had some great feedback from firefighters past and present and are delighted to now be working with a number of retired associations, including the National Association of Retired Firefighters (NARF), to spread the message to as many retired firefighters as possible.

Thank you to all those of you who already donate or who have recently become a regular donor, your generosity will allow us to continue in the provision of life-enhancing support to retired members of the fire community.

You can find out more and donate online at www. ffcdonateforamate.org.uk/ retired

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SHOUT+

DONATE FOR A MATE: MEET ROGER In 1999 Roger Dyson, 61, was a passenger in a fire engine that was responding to a call.

He suffered an injury when the driver had to brake hard.

“I didn’t realise anything was wrong at the time, besides reporting the jolt to my neck and shoulder,” he says, recalling the incident. “However, some weeks later my daughter pointed out that l had developed a limp.

I managed to carry on in work until an incident in 2006 resulted in me going off sick for six weeks. The pain in my back and legs had now worsened and I visited a specialist at Warrington General.

I received physiotherapy and podiatry through Greater Manchester FRS.”

Roger continues: “I returned to work on light duties in fire safety at Stretford Fire Station where I enjoyed this new challenge and spent my last 20 months of duty there achieving a promotion to the rank of Temporary Crew Manager.”

Keen to see if he could improve his quality of life after suffering severe discomfort for such a long time, Roger first visited Jubilee House in February 2015.

“Since the initial incident my leg and back have always troubled me,” he explains. “Generally my muscles are tense and most nights I have to stretch as I always have discomfort.

At the time I was given some lower back exercises, but I don’t

DONATING IN MEMORY A donation to The Fire Fighters Charity in memory of a loved one is a personal way of remembering that person whilst providing support to firefighters and their families across the UK. Any donation will go directly towards the Charity and will make a vital contribution towards helping injured firefighters and other members of the fire community.

Your donation will directly fund the work of the charity and, in so doing, provide life enhancing support to injured firefighters and other members of the fire community. Many people also often prefer to leave a charitable donation than to gift flowers at a funeral. We can therefore consequently provide donation envelopes, should you wish to offer people this alternative.

Should you decide to use our donation envelopes, we can also ensure that all your

think I did them as properly as I should. I want to be supple and active in retirement, so eventually I thought I would apply to the Charity to get more helpful exercises so that I can continue to be mobile.

programme that is specific to you. You don’t get that at the NHS, where they give you print outs and tell you to go away and practise. At the Charity it is completely different.

“I knew of the Charity through my service but I thought I wasn’t that bad and there would be more deserving people out there, that is why I left it so long to get in contact.”

“My goal at the end of the programme was to leave with a new fitness routine that would be easier to manage with my condition. Now that I have this I am equipped to remove some of my discomfort out of my back and make my muscles a lot less tense.

Roger remembers; “I was at Jubilee for 12 nights and even after two days I knew it was the right decision. I didn’t know what to expect when I first arrived. I really appreciated the fact that someone can spend the time and look at your injury and design a physiotherapy

“I would recommend the Charity to others. I never thought I would have to use the facilities.

Now that I have, I really do appreciate the service.”

INTRODUCING THE SHOUT+ GALLERY Are you an enthusiastic painter, poet, cartoonist, author or sculptor? We’d like to hear from hobbyists across the country who used to work in the fire and rescue service and now spend their spare time turning their memories of service into creative masterpieces.

donations go further by claiming Gift Aid on them, providing the relevant section on each envelope is completed.

If you would like to order some donation envelopes or require any further information regarding ‘In Memoriam’ donations please contact our Customer Care Team on 01256 366581. To make an in memoriam donation on line you can visit our In Memoriam online donation page - http://bit.ly/2bEJhAI - or speak to your funeral director, who will be able to make the arrangements for you.

If you’ve penned a poem or painted a picture that captures how you feel about your career, colleagues or friends, we’d like to see it.

In true Tony Hart-style we’ll publish the pick of the bunch in each issue of Shout+, starting with this poem from retired firefighter Richard Small of Barnstaple titled When Danger Came: Not for them to say, ’We’re brave’, though risk their lives they would, when danger came with threat of death, through hope and hell, they stood.

To a man, the foe they’d fight, regardless of its form, and danger

38 39

comes with threat of death, in darkness, fire and storm.

I know their thoughts; I feel their pain, for with them I once stood, and danger came with threat of death, but not once cry they would.

When fearful shouts for help came in, loud bells would raise alarm, then danger and its threat of death was met with strength and calm.

The siren wailed, the road had cleared and urgently they’d drive.

While danger stalks with threat of death. ‘Hang on, ‘till they arrive.’

That dreadful fire, it seemed to breathe, and life to terror give, as danger grew with threat of death, they must not let it live.

Fire is dead and people saved, the crew returned to base, all danger quelled from threat of death, relief on every face.

No coin they ask, but honour due; reporters, beg their name, though danger lurks with threat of death, none who’s there, seek fame.

SHOUT+

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

narfire.org.uk

NARF Buckinghamshire

bucksvoice.net/narf

Durham and Darlington Retired Members Networking Group

xddfire.org.uk

ECFRS Retired Members Association

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

Hampshire Past Members Association

xhfrs.wordpress.com/welfare

NARF Hereford and Worcester

hwfire.org.uk/your_fire_service/narf.html

Humberside Retirement Page

facebook.com/HFRRP

London Fire Brigade Retired Members Association

lfbrma.org/

Find an old fire service friend

ex-fire.co.uk/lostfriends.html

NARF Sheffield and Rotherham

narfsheffield.org.uk

Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue ‘Old Hands’ section

http://www. twfire.gov.uk/oldhands

NARF West Midlands Branch

wmnarf.co.uk

Wiltshire Retired Firefighters Association

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

fssaa-bowls.co.uk

Firefighters Memorial Charitable Trust

firefightersmemorial.co.uk

Worshipful Company of Firefighters

www.firefighterscompany.org

Department of Work and Pensions

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

Civil Service Pensioners Alliance

cspa.co.uk

National Pensioner’s Convention

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

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 Ian Ferguson, editor of the National Association of Retired Firefighters News, on the association’s special relationship with The Fire Fighters Charity.

As The National Association of Retired Fire fighters (NARF) approaches its Golden Jubilee year, we at NARF are keen to continue to nurture and promote our excellent relationship with The Fire Fighters Charity, which we have built up over the past 50 years.

A good number of our members have benefitted from the services and support that the Charity offers at its three facilities at Harcombe House, Marine Court and Jubilee House. I know from my own experience that there are former colleagues who, without the

Charity’s intervention, would not be in the position they are today.

One such example I can quickly recall is a colleague who sustained a crush injury to his feet and he was actually told by doctors that he might never walk again. However, following a visit to Jubilee House in Penrith, Cumbria and coupled with some intensive physiotherapy from the Charity, I am happy to report that he is now back on his feet and walking again. This, for me is a great testament to the fantastic work the Charity can do for all members of the Fire Service and their families, both serving and retired.

Another example of how important the Charity is to us and again from my own personal experience; two of my firefighter colleagues lost their lives on duty in the early 80s. The Charity offered support to the families

of the firefighters, which was fantastic because, as we all know, any one of us could have lost our lives that night and it was good to know that there was some support for the families in such desperate times.

It is examples like these that say to me we should all contribute to the Charity in our retirement and not just rely on serving members and others to provide the necessary funding on a continual basis. The Fire Fighters Charity was there for me if I needed it whilst I served and continues to be so in my retirement. We must ensure that this remains the case today and in the times ahead for serving and retired firefighters and their families.

On a personal note I have been retired now for just over eight years, but I still feel it

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right to support the Charity by contributing each month via a standing order. It’s so easy to do and if every serving and retired firefighter set up a standing order for even just a pound a week, the Charity would be in a much stronger position to continue to provide and maintain its extensive health and wellbeing services. This is why NARF is pleased to support the Charity’s Donate For A Mate campaign.

Please consider making a regular donation to the Fire Fighters Charity if you are not doing so already by visiting www.ffcdonateforamate.org. uk/retired.

I’m a huge fan of the Charity for the reasons I’ve stated above and at NARF we look forward to continuing to help and support the Charity in any way we can for another 50 years.

WOULD OULD YOU O

H ELP A FRIEND? Leave the job, but don’t leave your charity.

Your former colleagues still need your support.

You can be there for them when they need it most.

DONATE TO THE FIRE FIGHTERS CHARITY And you’ll be helping thousands of retired fire and rescue service personnel get the support they need.

WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER www.ffcdonateforamate.org.uk The Fire Fighters Charity is a Company Limited by Guarantee.

Registered in England No. 4480058 Charity Reg. No. 1093387. Charity Registered in Scotland No. SC040096.

40 Hampshire, 41 Registered Office: The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6, Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, RG21 4HG.

Royal Patron Her Majesty The Queen

COMPETITION

Volvo gear up for grabs As well as offering beneficiaries of The Fire Fighters Charity a great deal on a new car, our friends at Volvo have kindly offered Shout! readers the chance to win £100 worth of Volvo merchandise.

You’ll find a wide range of technology, lifestyle and fashions in Volvo’s collection, including travel bags, clothing, Ocean Race jackets and watches, all with an emphasis on understated luxury and Scandinavian style. To see for yourself just visit https://collection.volvocars.com/en/ Volvo Car UK would also like to remind you that The Fire Fighters Charity beneficiaries can benefit from exclusive savings across the Volvo range and that, for every car sold, Volvo will make a donation to the charity. See details on the exclusive offer on the Volvo V40 T2 Momentum Manual (pictured) below.

To win, simply tackle the question below and send your answer– 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.

What was the name of The Fire Fighters Charity’s inaugural national cake-sale event in May 2016?

A)

Bake a Difference

B)

Bake My Day

C)

Bake That

The winner will be picked at random from all correct entries received on or before 31 January 2017 and notified via email or telephone.

Your information: The information you provide will be used by the Charity to fulfil your request. Your details may also be used to keep you informed about the Charity – please call 01256 366566 if you do not wish us to contact you.

Volvo V40 T2 Momentum Manual Offer: Volvo V40 T2 Momentum Manual exclusive member saving of £3,715 off the Recommended Retail Price. Additional finance deposition contribution and 3 years complementary servicing when financed on Personal Contract Purchase with Volvo Car Credit. Terms and Conditions apply. To find out more call the Affinity team on 03333 204 147 or visit The Fire Fighters Charity offer page - http://affinity.volvocarcorporation.com/partners/QB98jw/V40

Shout!

Order your Double Tulip .99 ‘Ice Cream’ now! £9 PACK OF 8 BULBS FOr ONLy

Plus p&p

ALSO 50% OFF 2ND PACK usually £19.98 for 2 packs

Tulip ‘Ice Cream’ This magnificent tulip definitely lives up to its name, as when in bloom it looks just like a delicious ice-cream, almost good enough to eat.

Deep-pink petals open to reveal softwhite petals. Attractive as cut flowers and excellent in borders or in a container on the patio.

FRHEOEUSE

BIRD R+70 E T N PLA RA FREE EXT ING SPR BS BUL ALSO AvAILABLE

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE

Total height approx. 30cm, Width 18cm.

100%

Queen of the Night

Hyacinths mixed

Daffodils Mixed TO ORDER VISIT:

www.bakker.com/ice-cream ENTER PROMO CODE: shoutoct2016 CALL: 0844 481 1002*

ORDER TODAY AND GET YOUR BIRDHOUSE PLANTER +70 BULBS ABSOLUTELY FREE! Bakker.com, P.O. Box 113, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 9WL. Telephone: 0844 481 1002.*

WITH OVER 70 YEARS EXPERIENCE OF SUPPLYING DIRECTLY TO THE PUBLIC, WE ARE EUROPE’S NUMBER ONE GARDEN SPECIALIST

*Calls are £0.07p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charges.

DELIvErING ExCELLENCE FOr OvEr 70 yEArS

Post to: Bakker.com, P.O. Box 113, SPALDING, Lincolnshire, PE11 9WL. Tel: 0844 481 1002.* Please debit my Card No: Cat.No. Description Price Qty Total

Tulip ‘Ice Cream’ 5209-53 (pack of 8 bulbs) ‘Ice Cream’ 5209-61 (2Tulip x 8 bulbs)

£9.99 INCLUDES 50% OFF 2ND PACK

£9.95

Hyacinths mixed 5277-35 (pack of 30 bulbs)

£14.95

5277-43 EXTRA

sufficient for 10-15m²

Daffodils Mixed

(pack of 50 bulbs) Flowering Plant Feed This well-balanced organic fertiliser ensures vigorous growth & abundant flowering.

Expiry date:

£14.95

Queen of the Night 5277-27 (pack of 10 lily bulbs)

5410-72 Bakker.com, Company Registration 02366169, located at Four Seasons House, Enterprise Way, Pinchbeck, Spalding, PE11 3YR.

Flowering Guarantee

All our bulbs or tubers come with a full flowering guarantee

!

Our customers rate this product

Credit or Debit cards will not be charged until your goods are ready to be despatched.

Last 3 digits on back of card

Security code:

I enclose a cheque/PO made payable to Bakker £

Name: Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms Address:

£16.45 £7.45

Postcode:

Birdhouse planter +70 Spring Bulbs Please add Post & Packaging (We may supply alternative varieties and gifts where necessary) ONLY ONE FREE GIFT PER ORDER Bulbs will be despatched from late August.

£

FrEE £5.29

Tel/Mobile

Email:

SUPPLY YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS

To be the first to receive information on our future price promotions Your email address will not be passed onto other companies.

Please tick this box if you do not wish us to pass on your postal mailing details to other companies who may have offers of interest to you.

Please note we are unable to deliver to the Channel Islands

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£1

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p t r i u o e in

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£3,000 CASH per tic

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£1,000 Holiday vouch e r s £400 bike vouchers e z i r p e r o m y n a m a nd

Enter online at www.raffleentry.org.uk/firefighterscharity

Closing date for ticket sales is 2nd December 2016 draw date : 9th December 2016 Please gamble responsibly: www.gambleaware.co.uk Promoter: K H Griffiths, The Fire Fighters Charity, Level 6, Belvedere, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HG. Licensed by the Gambling Commission, under the Gambling Act 2005 (www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk). Tickets must not be sold by or to any persons under 16 years of age.

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