Hills sponsor Fire Cadets scheme for fourth year

Pass-out parade sees company confirm further sponsorship of Fire Cadets scheme in Wiltshire

THE Hills Group have confirmed sponsorship of the Fire Cadets scheme run by Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service in Wiltshire for the year 2022/23. The announcement was made at the recent pass-out parades at Swindon and Trowbridge Fire Stations for the 2021/22 cadets completing their year of training.

Cadet courses run in each school year, with a new intake of young people aged between 13 and 18 every September. Practical activities, mirroring those undertaken by firefighters, help to develop confidence and self-esteem, as well as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Partnerships manager Christine Sharma said: ‘The Hills Group have been supporting the Fire Cadets in Swindon and Wiltshire for four years now, and their support has been invaluable. Thanks to their funding, we can cover the cost of uniform, equipment, and resources to enable the weekly sessions to take place in both cadet units.’

The aim of Fire Cadets is to support the development of young people by providing a positive role model and giving them opportunities to participate in a wide range of activities. The scheme targets young people aged between the ages of 13 and 18, giving them the chance to develop and improve personal and social skills but also obtain certificates and accreditation.

Paul Elling, compliance manager at Hills, said: ‘I would like to congratulate all the Fire Cadets for the commitment they have shown in successfully completing the course and obtaining their qualifications. The experience gained from working as a team, improving their self-esteem, confidence, and communication skills will prove very valuable in the next phase of their development.

‘Hills are proud to once again offer sponsorship of the Fire Cadets programme for another year and we trust that the new recruits starting in September will be as successful as those from these cohorts.’