Meet Katie, a trainee On-Call Firefighter at Ilkeston

What made you want to become an On-Call Firefighter/ join DFRS?

I wanted to help my community that I’ve always lived in. I’ve lived here since I was a young child, I’ve directed people past the fire station and been part of the community.

How did you apply for the role?

I applied online in February – it was really easy, and there was lots of information available.

Are you in other employment? If so, what is your other role?

I am self employed as a mental health counsellor within my own business, which means I can work my admin hours around being on-call and adapt my diary to suit being On-Call from home.  

I have previously worked within the NHS and with the police, working with people that overused emergency services and supported them with their mental health. I loved working with people and gaining an insight into their problems and why they behaved that way. 

I decided to start my own business and work with people with mental health problems and also provide relationship counselling to help people. I feel the jobs go hand in hand as I can work my own hours and support people by being available for the fire service. I like helping and supporting people and the jobs are similar in that way but for totally different reasons. I love it. 

What are you looking forward to most in training?

Learning so much more than people think. The role isn’t simple, and I love learning and adding to my own knowledge.

Tell us what you’re looking forward to most in the role.

I’m looking forward to helping and supporting people in their times of need and being part of a great team.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I run Tough Mudders throughout the year. Currently I’ve completed 18 Full / 16 Half’s and 13k runs and I have a season pass to complete all the runs next year (as long as they go ahead).

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your journey so far?

I’ve found the instructors really knowledgeable and friendly and it’s been a great team to learn from. I have really enjoyed everything so far.