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Young people have been learning vital life-saving skills thanks to an innovative partnership between Renfrewshire Council and the fire brigade.
Delivered by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) with support from the Council and other local services, the Fire Reach programme aims to inspire positive change and promote community safety in a supportive, hands-on learning environment.
This year’s course took place at Renfrew Fire Station, where those taking part had the chance to gain practical experience and transferable skills, while working directly with fire and rescue professionals.
The group of young people, who had previously taken part in youth outreach programmes with the council, received training in CPR, road safety, and community safety.
More than just fire safety, Fire Reach is designed to build core skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and self-confidence, equipping young people with tools they can carry into further learning, volunteering, or employment.
Councillor Robert Innes said: “The scheme offers young people a chance to learn valuable life skills in supportive and structured environment. Working with the fire service helps build confidence, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility – skills that will benefit them for life. It’s about giving young people tools and opportunities to make positive choices in their future.”
Kevin Murphy, the SFRS Area Commander for East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire & Inverclyde, commented on the success of the first group and thanked all partners involved in its development.
He said: “Congratulations to all the young people who took part from the local area, with the final practical demonstration being a great example of the participants dedication and commitment throughout the course.
“The Fire Skills Course is a notable example of successful local partnership working with Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service and Glasgow Airport Fire Service also delivering inputs throughout the week.
“We would also like to thank our partners at Renfrewshire Council who contributed to the success of this course.”
Fire Reach is the latest in a series of youth-focused initiatives from the Council.
Those involved were also part of the Good Vibes programme last summer, which involved outreach work reaching over 450 young people. A number of those joined a seven-week educational awareness programme tackling anti-social behaviour and helping shape future support for young people across Renfrewshire.
