In an emergency always call 999
Make a selection from both options above.
Avon Fire & Rescue Service is set to release a new episode of its mental health podcast, Ignite the Conversation, featuring Chief Fire Officer Matt Cook in an open discussion about trauma, recovery, resilience and the vital support available to the fire service community through The Fire Fighters Charity.
Launching on Thursday 27 August, Episode 3 will see Matt speak with hosts Lee and Warren about his 25-year career in the fire service, the incidents that have stayed with him, including his experience following the Grenfell Tower fire, and the responsibility that comes with leading a fire and rescue service. The conversation includes Matt’s personal experience of how seeking support helped him.
Throughout the episode, Matt highlights the importance of talking, accessing help early and recognising that psychological injuries deserve the same care and attention as physical injuries. He also speaks about the role The Fire Fighters Charity played in his recovery, including support through its services and programmes.
Matt Cook, Chief Fire Officer at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, said: “If I hadn’t accessed The Fire Fighters Charity when I needed them, I would not be in the job today. The hardest part of the journey is asking for help, but there is support available and there is a way forward.”
The Fire Fighters Charity provides health and wellbeing support for the fire service community, including firefighters, control officers, support staff, retired personnel and families. Its support includes physical rehabilitation, psychological wellbeing services, social wellbeing support and a 24/7 Crisis Line for past and present UK fire services personnel experiencing suicidal thoughts.
AF&RS is using the episode to encourage staff, volunteers, retired colleagues, families and members of the public to learn more about the Charity’s work, access support if they need it, and support its services by donating, fundraising or using clothing bank donation points where available.
Donations help The Fire Fighters Charity continue to provide confidential health and wellbeing support for the fire service community and their families, including physical rehabilitation, psychological wellbeing support and crisis support. More information on The Fire Fighters Charity and how to support them can be found here.
Episode 3 of Ignite the Conversation will be available to watch and listen to from Thursday 27 August on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Support information: If you are part of the fire service community and need health and wellbeing support, contact The Fire Fighters Charity support line on 0800 389 8820. Or, if not, speak to someone you trust, or contact your GP.