Imagine it's 3am and a family's just lost everything they own in a house fire. Everyone is safe but the children are cold and they have nowhere to go. Our volunteers turn up day or night to offer practical help and support. Could you help people in their time of need?
How would I be helping people?
As a fire and emergency support service (FESS) volunteer, you could provide much-needed assistance to people who have suddenly found themselves homeless following a fire, evacuation, industrial accident or flood. You could make a difference in your community by:
- helping evacuated families find temporary accommodation
- providing practical help and emotional support to distressed people
- signposting people to other organisations and agencies that will help.
What skills and training do I need?
You need to be able to communicate effectively with people of different ages, physical and psychological needs and varying backgrounds who are faced with a difficult and stressful situation.
We will give you the training and support you need to do this role.
How much time do I need to give up?
You and your volunteering manager will discuss how much time you are able to give. Since our volunteering opportunities depend on local needs, some areas may need volunteers more regularly or for longer hours than others. If one of our services requires more time than you are able to give, we may have other volunteering opportunities that fit your schedule.
Why are volunteers needed?
Without volunteers we would never be able to give people the help they need in a crisis. Because we offer so many services across the UK, we depend on people who generously give up their time to help others.
How do I apply?
You can search and apply online for fire and emergency support service volunteering opportunities. You can also talk to a service manager about current opportunities near you.
True story: Back on their feet
When Jim and Alison Smith’s house was gutted by fire, things looked incredibly bleak – they were left standing on the street with their six children and pet dog. But then the Red Cross arrived.
The family, from Leeds, was devastated by the fierce blaze that forced them to move out of their home. But now, thanks to the quick and efficient help provided by the fire and emergency support service, the family have been able to deal with the impact of the fire.
When the volunteers were called out following the blaze, they provided immediate practical help and support, including water, essential toiletries and even pet food. However, the volunteers also brought along lots of insurance leaflets and useful contact advice, which ultimately helped the family to get their lives back on track.
Jim, a security guard, said: “We were extremely grateful. Most of our house was gutted by the fire, so the Red Cross’ volunteers arrived at a time when we really needed their help and guidance." Podcast: Any time. Day or night.
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