Hampshire Fire Service Salutes Covid Volunteers in Volunteers’ Week
As Volunteers’ Week kicks off (June 1-7), Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) is shining the spotlight on the heroes behind the scenes. More than 100 volunteers have been crucial in boosting fire service support during the Covid-19 crisis.
Volunteers From All Walks of Life Step Up
From community events to Fire Cadet and Prince’s Trust programmes, volunteers of all ages and backgrounds have clocked countless hours. Many HIWFRS staff also volunteered as vaccinators or teamed up with the NHS to battle the pandemic.
“Volunteers’ Week is a great chance to thank our incredible volunteers,” says HIWFRS Volunteer Co-ordinator Lee Joss. “They dedicate huge effort to keep our communities safe.”
Vital Roles Amid the Pandemic
- Volunteers helped deliver thousands of Safe and Well referral postcards to 40+ vaccination sites across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
- These postcards advertise free home fire safety visits targeting the most vulnerable.
- The initiative sparked 700+ new referrals, helping protect even more at-risk residents.
- Vaccinations for 80+ rough sleepers in portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth were delivered via a Community Contact Point vehicle, driven by volunteer Graham Urwin.
“Supporting this community effort was a real highlight,” said Graham. “Volunteering is rewarding and a fantastic way to give back.”
Firefighters Go Beyond the Call of Duty
More than 20 firefighters and support staff volunteered as vaccinators. Additionally, 27 firefighters joined doctors and nurses in ICU units across Hampshire, while others drove ambulances, proving fire crews are ready to tackle any crisis.
