Posted: Wednesday 20 March 2024, 11:37
I joined the fire and rescue sector in June 2002, initially starting with South Yorkshire Fire And Rescue Service before moving to Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service in February 2020.
I became a Crew Manager in 2011 and a Watch Manager in 2023, now based at Chesterfield Fire Station. I feel proud to have served for over 21 years and to be working for such an important service.
Outside of being a firefighter my life is very busy as I am a mum of three; two of my children are two years old. Working on the wholetime shift system - a 4 on 4 off work pattern of two day shifts and two nights shifts followed by four days off - allows me to continue to work a full time job that I enjoy while also being able to support the needs of my family.
I enjoy being part of a team (people within the fire service become your work family!) and helping my community. Over the years I have learned a lot of new skills and passed exams to develop myself in my role. Being a firefighter has enabled me to adapt in dynamically changing environments.
One piece of advice I would give people wanting to join Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service is to look into the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) as this will give you a bigger picture and understanding of what the Service is all about. The sector has come a long way since I first became a firefighter in 2002 and helping to support and protect our communities is a key part of what we do.
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service is recruiting wholetime firefighters. Applications close at midday on Wednesday 3 April 2024.
For more information and to apply, visit https://www.derbys-fire.gov.uk/careers/become-a-firefighter/wholetime-firefighter.